TRADITIONAL TURKISH WOOD CRAFT

CLASSIFICATION OF WORKS

Shelf For Quilted Turban: It was used in Seljuk and Ottoman Empires periods. It was a kind of head- dress showing official status and title of people. Generally it is made of cachet and felt clothes wounding round a fez. When it was not in use, itwas placed on a shelf which was manufactured foe only for this hat. Nowadays, the hat is not used in anywhere, but the shelf is still used for decoration.
Designs used in shelves: Rumi, Rumi and Hatai, Cross and Baroque figures
Empire & Country RIiggings: The sun in upside of the rigging represents Ottoman Empire.In the center of it there is a crescent surrounding the Ottoman Sultan's Imperial monogram (signatures). In the middle of it, there are spears, bankrupts, a revolver,a cannon, a sword, a balance representing justice, a horn symbolizing fertility, law booklets called Mecelle and a shield (which may have writings on). And there is also a trumpet on the shield. Under side of the rigging there are some medals given for different reasons by Ottoman Sultans.
Folding Screen: It was originally used in Traditional Turkish Theatre, called "Orta oyunu". It is used to divide rooms or offices into two. It is also used as a place to wear behind it. In Ottoman Palaces, it was used to separate the places belonging to men (called selamlık) and to women(called haremlik). Because of its decorative features, it is generally manufactured whit traditional figures.
Used designs: Seljuk Interlace (Cross), Cross + Rumi.It can be produced with crown that is completely Rumi.
Tripod, Armchair and Table: Tripods may be round or angled. Their feet can be smooth and simple (without figure), simple handwork, covered and embroidered or Baroque cutting. Tables and armchairs are parts of a set used for sitting or working. They may be simple or Baroque cutting. Designs desired by clients can be produced.
Lamp Shelf: It looks like the shelf used for the quilted turban. But, it is smaller then the shelf of turban. It was used as a shelf on which gas lamps were put. In Seljuk and Ottoman eras, gas lamps were used for lightening. But, it is a decorative component today.
Low Reading Desk: Once, It was used for reading and writing.It is consisted of two portable and one fixed part. In present time, it is used for decoration and reading the Koran
Ceiling Centre: Generally, it is used as a decoration for the ceiling of saloons or sitting areas. By giving light behind it, beams can be produced. It can be produces as nailed ceiling, engraved ceiling or suspended ceiling. Traditional designs are used.
Cradle (Baby Swing): Cradles are still used in rural areas as a bed for babies. It may get different forms one place to another depending on cultural differences. In cities, cradles are being used as a decorative element or newspaper-rack.
Calligraphy: It was an occupation in Seljuk and Ottoman times. the most common subjects used in this type of art are the formula "Bismillahirrahmanirrahim" , records of the Koran and the Koran itself. these are written o a rectangular or circular boarb and on Sultan's monograms. Bur it can be worked as a simple writing, too.
Frame: There are two types of frame, crowned frame and uncrowned frame. Also they can be classified as carved frames and frezeid (hand made and machine made), too. Different types can be worked. Pictures photos or a mirror can be placed in it. Crowned models and traditional desings can be produced on wide surfaces by using the techniques of carving or decograph.
Niche: Niche is a recess on thick and stonewalls of houses for putting some small daily tools.It can also be used for decoration. In wooden houses, it was formed by carving in order to be used as an open cupboard.The frant of the niche can be designed as portable or fixed.

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