Ethnography · 17th century
€ 345
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good antique condition with age-related toning and light scattered foxing. Minor edge wear consistent with age. Mounted on paper.
Mehmed IV Ottoman Sultan “The Hunter” Portrait Engraving, c.1700
A striking and highly decorative late 17th to early 18th-century copperplate engraving depicting Mehmed IV (1642–1693), Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1648 to 1687. Known as “Mehmed the Hunter” (Avcı Mehmed), he presided over one of the longest reigns in Ottoman history, during which the empire reached its greatest territorial extent in Europe before entering a period of military and political transition.
The portrait presents the Sultan in an elegant oval format, identified in the Dutch inscription as “D’Grooten Turckse Keyser, Mahumet IIII” (“The Great Turkish Emperor, Mehmed IV”). He is shown in richly detailed imperial attire, including a magnificent jeweled turban adorned with a plume, a fur-lined cloak, and intricately patterned garments beneath. In his hand he holds a ceremonial staff or scepter, reinforcing his authority and status.
The engraving is executed with refined linework and tonal precision, particularly evident in the rendering of textiles, fur, and facial features. The balanced composition, combined with the strong oval framing and bold typography, creates a visually compelling and highly decorative image suitable for both collectors and interior display.
Such portraits were widely circulated in European publications documenting foreign rulers and empires, reflecting the fascination with the Ottoman court during the early modern period. Prints like this often originated from Dutch publishing houses, with examples attributed to engravers such as Jacob Gole or related workshops.
This piece offers both historical significance and strong decorative appeal, making it an excellent addition to collections focused on Ottoman history, global rulers, or early European engravings.
Interior mockups shown are for visual inspiration only and do not represent the exact scale. We do not sell reproductions, only original works of art over 100 years old.
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning and light scattered foxing. Minor edge wear consistent with age. Mounted on paper.
Framing tips: This print is ideally presented with a wide ivory or cream mat to emphasize the central oval composition. A dark wood or black frame provides strong contrast, while a gilt frame enhances its historical and decorative richness.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Dutch School, possibly after Jacob Gole, c. 1700
