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In the heart of Istanbul’s historic quarters, an olfactory odyssey awaits art lovers and fragrance aficionados. The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum has unveiled The exhibition “Gilaf-i Reyya: Scent Bottles from the Ottoman Empire to the Present” offers a rare glimpse into the refined craftsmanship and exquisite artistry that went into creating fragrance vessels over centuries past.

The Ottomans, with their refined aesthetic sensibilities, elevated scent to an art form, crafting exquisite bottles to contain precious liquids.

A Collector’s Passion Unveils An Aromatic Legacy 

Meticulously curated by renowned collector Bekir Kantarci, this breathtaking display features over 450 antique scent bottles, burners, and rosewater sprinklers from his personal trove. Sourced from across the globe, these artifacts date from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. unlock the secrets of a bygone era when fragrance was an integral part of daily life.

“The exhibition roots trace back 35 years to my awakening passion for fragrance,” Kantarci reveals. “What began as curiosity blossomed into an all-consuming quest to preserve this precious aspect of our heritage.”

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Opulent Vessels Brimming With History

From delicate Beykoz glassware to ornate European crystals, the diverse materials showcase the boundless creativity poured into every creation. Glittering gold, silver and brass pieces stand beside exquisitely carved ivory, richly hued ceramics and vibrant enamelled works. Each vessel is a masterpiece unto itself, reflecting the heights of craftmanship attained.

“These bottles transcend their utilitarian purpose, becoming true “objet d’art” that reveal entire cultures through their form and embellishment,” explains curator Beste Gursu. “To experience the exhibition is to inhale the very essence of a sophisticated society.”

An Ancient Tradition Aromatically Revived

The mystical allure of fragrance has entranced humanity since ancient times, evolving into intricate rituals and traditions across civilizations. For the Ottoman Empire, perfumed oils, musks and floral waters held spiritual significance, their heavenly scents elevating mind, body and soul.   

“Our ancestors invested fragrance with deep meaning, be it for religious ceremonies, therapeutic applications or simply personal indulgence,” Kantarci expounds. “Even the humblest abodes burned aromatic woods while the nobles commissioned ornate perfume bottles befitting their rank.”

By preserving these precious 鈥渙bjets de parfum鈥�, the exhibition celebrates a transcendent art that once permeated all aspects of life in Imperial Istanbul. Evliya Celebi’s accounts reveal over 2,000 perfumers flourishing in the capital during its golden age, supplying spices and fragrances sourced across vast trade routes.

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From Humble Beginnings to Imperial Indulgences

In the exhibition’s narrative, humble origins give way to opulent indulgences. “Before the 1850s, fragrance was a rare luxury, produced in small quantities and commanding exorbitant prices,” explains Kantarc谋. Bottles that once preserved such precious essences were themselves works of art, their designs echoing the fragrances’ sublime allure.

An Immersive Multisensory Experience 

But “Gilaf-i Reyya” does not merely dazzle the eyes – it tantalises every sense. As visitors wander amidst glittering exhibits, the air carries hushed whispers of floral, woody and musky accords once favoured by sultan and subject alike. An extraordinary olfactory journey awaits.  

This multisensory immersion into a  bygone world is made possible through the visionary support of Kuveyt Turk.

A Vanishing Art in the Modern Age

Yet amidst this fragrant splendour lies a cautionary tale. As Gursu laments, “The real smell is unfortunately gradually disappearing in a place where everything is materialised.” In today’s commercialized landscape, the authenticity and richness of traditional scents are fading, their artistry supplanted by mass production.

Until May 22nd, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the intoxicating world of Ottoman perfumery. “Gilaf-i Reyya” is more than an exhibition; it is a fragrant testament to humanity’s timeless pursuit of beauty and an ode to the irreplaceable art of ancient master perfumers.