The Turkish Presidency’s National Palaces Painting Museum has initiated the restoration of five 19th-century historical paintings, including valuable works such as “Yavuz Sultan Selim and the Prince,” “Sultan Selim III,” and “Istanbul Landscape.” The restoration is being conducted by a dedicated team at the Yıldız Şale campus of the National Palaces in Beşiktaş, Istanbul. The meticulous restoration process is expected to be completed in the coming months.
Hatice Biga, responsible for the Painting Restoration and Conservation Workshop, provided insights into the restoration work. She explained that each artwork receives specialized treatment tailored to its specific condition and type of deterioration. The restoration process begins with thorough documentation upon the artwork’s arrival at the workshop. These detailed records cover the entire restoration process, including the work’s condition, treatment, and preservation.
Among the paintings undergoing restoration are a view of Istanbul from the 19th century, two works related to the Iranian dynasty, a portrait of Selim III, and “Musician Women,” believed to be an example of Qajar Dynasty art from Iran. Research is also ongoing to determine the artists and schools to which these paintings belong.
One of the most notable works, “Yavuz Sultan Selim and the Prince,” portrays Sultan Selim kneeling with a prince behind him, set against a backdrop of the sea and the city’s architecture. The painting includes a calligraphic inscription mentioning Bayezid-i Sani, believed to be the father of Yavuz Sultan Selim.
The restoration efforts aim to preserve these historical artworks for future generations while shedding light on their artistic and historical significance.