Silk ceremonial kaftan of sultan Ibrahim (1640-1648). 166 cm in length. Ottoman, c. 1645.
The woven motifs are called ‘Chinese clouds’ (the horizontal ones) and ‘şintemani’. The beige background was stamped with a carnation design. This particular fabric was reportedly imported from Venice, where it was woven exclusively for the Ottoman court.

Sultan kaftans were mostly made of heavy brocade with metal thread classed as ‘kemha’ - a closely woven fabric which was extremely stiff and difficult to tailor, but was preferred for ceremonial occasions as it gave the impression of rigid immobility in the wearer, and encouraged the stiff deportment expected of sultans.

When a sultan died, his ceremonial wardrobe was added to the Treasure of the Palace. That is why these old garments are so well-preserved. Some other pieces were recovered from Imperial mausolea, where they covered the cenotaph sarcophagi of princes or sultans.

Correspondent: J.M.Criel, Antwerpen.
Sources: ‘Treasures of the Topkapı Palace’ & Website of ‘exploreturkey.com’ .