Arts of the golden age of the Ottoman Empire

About this course

The course explores how Ottoman artists and patrons developed a distinctive visual language during the Empire’s period of expansion. It considers the influence of artists from conquered regions and Renaissance Italy, alongside the role of the Topkapi Sarayi palace and its Imperial workshops. Teaching is delivered through live lectures using slide images, with group discussion. Topics include royal patronage, workshop organisation, architecture, calligraphy, book arts, ceramics, textiles and other decorative arts.

What you'll learn

• Identify two significant Ottoman royal patrons.
• Recognise four artists, architects or designers who shaped Ottoman artistic expression.
• Describe the technical background of one Ottoman craft tradition that has continued into the present.

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to learners at all levels and is taught through lectures, visual material and group discussion. Participants should be able to follow simple written and spoken instructions, demonstrations, handouts and health and safety information. Familiarity with Google Classroom, or willingness to learn it, will help with accessing course materials.

• The format combines live lectures with opportunities for group discussion.
• Course materials are shared digitally through Google Classroom.

Before you go

• A notebook may be useful for taking notes.
• Books from any reading list may be purchased separately.
• Digital handouts are provided through Google Classroom.
• The live lectures are not recorded for later playback.