The Throne of Arife

Among the treasures of Topkapı Palace, the thrones are very special. It is hard to find so many rich and precious thrones in the treasury of any empire.

One of them is the Throne of Arife. Arife means the day just before a great religious feast. In the Ottoman palace, such days were important and full of ceremony.

This throne was designed and made by Sedefkar Mehmed Agha. He was also the architect of the Blue Mosque. His name, Sedefkar, means a master who works with mother-of-pearl.

The throne is decorated with mother-of-pearl, tortoise shell, and precious stones. These fine materials shine softly together. They show the great skill of the palace craftsmen, and the rich world of the Ottoman sultans.