SULTAN MECID’S MANSION
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Contemporary Art & Art Space
In 2022, the exhibition titled 'Not to be Named' held at Abdülmecid Efendi Mansion became the most well-liked event among the activities organized in parallel with the 17th Istanbul Biennial. Thanks to such exhibitions, both Istanbulites and art enthusiasts have the rare opportunity to explore this private property in Nakkaştepe, which is typically closed to the public. Once a residence where the last Caliph, Abdülmecid, hosted esteemed guests like Tevfik Fikret, Şair Nigar, Recaizade Mahmut Ekrem, and Abdülhak Hamit Tarhan, the mansion now offered us an amazing art experience, showcasing a contemporary art selection from Ömer Koç's collection.
The Mansion
The Abdülmecid Efendi Mansion is gracefully perched on the breathtaking hill of Nakkaştepe, serving as a residential area for state officials since the Roman period. This architectural gem, designed by the architect Alexander Vaullary, was originally built as a riding pavilion by Ismail Pasha, a prominent member of the Kavalalı family who held the distinguished title of "khedive," the governor of Egypt during the late 1880s in the Ottoman Empire. While the Harem section of the mansion has not withstood the test of time, the remaining Selamlık section, designed in an eclectic style, along with its enchanting garden spanning 200 acres, offer a visual feast.
The mansion, which was presented as a gift to Abdülmecid, from his cousin Sultan Hamid in 1895, was vacated after the abolition of the sultanate (1922) and later the caliphate (1924), and the sale of personal belongings and furniture.
The Last Caliph: Painter Abdülmecid Efendi
When we examine the historical relationship between the ruling class and art, we find that the members of the Ottoman dynasty were surprisingly receptive to figurative and three-dimensional art, often contrasting with the traditional Ottoman society's sensitivity to Islamic values by taking bold initiatives. Their appreciation for art was not confined to the later periods, which are often criticized for Western influences. Few people recall the three "Pagan" sculptures brought to Istanbul as spoils of the Battle of Mohács by İbrahim Pasha of Parga and displayed in the Hippodrome during the 16th century.
The court environment and traditions played an important role in nurturing the talents of many Ottoman sultans, making music, arts and crafts an integral part of their life. Therefore, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to call the last caliph Abdülmecid a painter. Undoubtedly, his interest was inspired by the painters of his era. Who were his mentors and friends in his circle? Fausto Zonaro, Alexander Vallaury, Osman Hamdi Bey, and many painters of the Şişli Atelier, which he played a key role in establishing…
In his art, Abdülmecid can be best described as a portrait painter. His portraits beautifully capture the intellectuals he befriended during his time, while his genre paintings offer surprisingly modern portrayals of women in their everyday lives, even within the harem. Notably, these depictions differ significantly from the Orientalist perspective of the West. What adds value to his art is his ability to draw inspiration from both Eastern and Western cultural influences, making art the focal point of his creations. However, what truly sets Abdülmecid Efendi's art apart, in my opinion, is his role as a witness to the societal transformation that took place during his lifetime, a period of significant change.