Turkish illumination art experience in Istanbul

Merhaba Pastaneleri Sirkeci
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  • Discover Tezhip, the Ottoman art of illumination adorning sacred manuscripts with elegance
  • Learn traditional gold leaf and pigment techniques guided by skilled Turkish artisans
  • Create intricate designs on handmade paper using classical Ottoman-inspired floral motifs
  • Explore the symbolism and history behind decorative arts that flourished during the Ottoman Empire’s height
  • Experience authentic Turkish hospitality with tea, coffee, and freshly baked cookies
  • Connect with Istanbul’s artistic legacy through timeless Ottoman craftsmanship and cultural storytelling

Package options

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Package type

3-hour experience

Quantity

From ₩ 45,300

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What to expect

Step into the art of Tezhip, the traditional Turkish illumination once used to decorate manuscripts, royal decrees, and Qur’ans. This Istanbul workshop introduces the Ottoman-era history, symbolism, and techniques behind the craft while showcasing original examples of illuminated works. Under the guidance of a master artisan, practice delicate brushwork and the application of gold leaf before embellishing a pre-drawn design. Using natural pigments and traditional methods on prepared paper, explore the layering and detailing that define this intricate art form. As the piece dries, enjoy Turkish tea or coffee with handmade cookies. Conclude with a finished handcrafted illumination, a refined keepsake of Ottoman artistry, and a unique connection to Istanbul’s cultural heritage

Leave with a handcrafted piece connecting you to Istanbul’s cultural legacy
Leave with a handcrafted piece connecting you to Istanbul’s cultural legacy
Explore traditional layering techniques, bringing symbolic patterns vividly to life
Explore traditional layering techniques, bringing symbolic patterns vividly to life
Practice delicate brushwork guided by skilled artisans preserving cultural heritage
Practice delicate brushwork guided by skilled artisans preserving cultural heritage
Feel the richness of history in every gold-lined brushstroke
Feel the richness of history in every gold-lined brushstroke
Enjoy warm hospitality with tea and cookies during your creative journey
Enjoy warm hospitality with tea and cookies during your creative journey
Craft a refined illumination that becomes a treasured artistic keepsake
Craft a refined illumination that becomes a treasured artistic keepsake
Step into Ottoman artistry, where elegance and symbolism gracefully meet
Step into Ottoman artistry, where elegance and symbolism gracefully meet
Create dazzling details that once decorated sacred texts and imperial decrees
Create dazzling details that once decorated sacred texts and imperial decrees

Reviews

Review for: 3-hour experience

It was a fun class with a wonderfully friendly staff. I do wish we had gotten some information on the history, traditions or techniques of illumination art.

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