1687 Portrait of Assan Aga by E. Nessenthaler: A Glimpse into Ottoman Nobility
€ 760
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1687
Sheet size
19.3 × 14 cm (7.6 × 5.5 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13154-19A
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Good, considering its age. General age related toning. German text on verso.
About this sheet
This etching and engraving is a portrait of Assan Aga, created by Elias Nessenthaler, a German artist, in the year 1687.
The artwork features Assan Aga, identified as "Magnus Aleppo Bassa," which suggests he held a significant position in Aleppo, likely a high-ranking official or governor ("Bassa" being a variant of "Pasha", a high-ranking title). The text beneath the portrait indicates that he was a significant adversary ("Perniciem") to the emperor of the Turks, hinting at a historical narrative of conflict or betrayal ("Coniuratus hostis" suggesting a conspiratorial enemy).
The portrait shows Assan Aga adorned in elaborate attire with a turban, indicative of his status and cultural significance during that period. The detail in the etching, from the facial features to the clothing, reflects the artistic skill of Elias Nessenthaler and the styles of portraiture common in the late 17th century. The framing of the image with decorative borders adds to its formal presentation and would have likely been intended for an audience interested in the political and military figures of the time.
Assan Aga, also known as Magnus Aleppo Bassa, was likely a historical figure of significance in Aleppo, bearing the title of Pasha, which indicates a high-ranking official or governor in the Ottoman Empire. The detailed portrait by Elias Nessenthaler, housed in the Royal Collection, hints at his importance during his time. For further details on Assan Aga, you can visit the Royal Collection Trust website.
