rectangular box with rounded ends, the cover, sides and base set with panels of engine-turning within polished gold borders, the cover corners and side pilasters chased with palmettes, foliage and scrolls, push-button thumbpiece, the cover set with later applied unidentified tughra of the Ottoman Empire
6 in. (155 mm.) wide
6 oz. (200 gr.)

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Lot Essay

A tughra is a calligraphic monogram, seal or signature of a sultan that was affixed to all official documents and correspondence. It was also carved on his seal and stamped on the coins minted during his reign. Very elaborate decorated versions were created for important documents that were also works of art in the tradition of Ottoman illumination. The tughra was designed at the beginning of each sultan's reign and drawn by the court calligrapher or nişancı on written documents. Tughras served a purpose similar to the cartouche in ancient Egypt or the Royal Cypher of British monarchs.