16th Ottoman naval lantern of Grand Vizier Sinan Pasha to shine at Sotheby's auction

Sotheby's London Wednesday will feature an exceptional piece of Ottoman history in its "Islamic World and Indian Arts" auction: the naval lantern of Grand Vizier Sinan Pasha.

This lantern stands out among a diverse collection of historical artifacts because of its rarity and profound significance.

Artisans crafted the lantern around 1574, exemplifying the tombak artistry of the era. It features three concentric rotating rings connected by rods to a U-shaped structure, with a central oil receptacle at its core.

Standing 31 inches tall and 18.5 inches in diameter, the lantern features intricate engravings of tulip heads, palmettes, and intertwined bands. These designs draw inspiration from Iznik pottery, contributing to the lantern's visual and artistic impact.

The lantern bears an inscription that reflects its esteemed origins: "Made for Koca Sinan Pasha, Vizier of the Dome."

This inscription identifies its original owner and emphasizes its status as a commissioned piece during a peak period of Ottoman artistry.

Who was Koca Sinan Pasha?

Koca Sinan Pasha was an Albanian-born official who built a considerable reputation in the Ottoman Empire. From 1580 until his death in 1596, he held the position of Grand Vizier five times.

His tenure included significant military and administrative roles, with pivotal campaigns in Yemen and Tunis that marked his rise within the empire.

"His strategies in these regions secured him the title of 'Conqueror of Yemen' and propelled him to higher ranks within the Ottoman administration," notes an expert from Sotheby's.

Sinan Pasha excelled in navigating the complex socio-political landscape of the Ottoman Empire, significantly bolstered by his strategic alliances. Notably, his relationship with Safiye Sultan, a favorite consort of Sultan Murad III and also of Albanian descent, was crucial for his political resurgence and his reappointment as Grand Vizier in 1595.

"Their alliance reflects the emerging patterns of ethnic and regional solidarity that were becoming prominent within the Ottoman administrative framework," a historian comments.

However, Sinan Pasha also faced criticism from his contemporary Ottoman historian, Mustafa Ali of Gallipoli, who accused him of promoting an Albanian clique within the administration and lacking an interest in culture and arts.

Yet, the preserved manuscripts at the Topkapi Palace Library suggest otherwise, pointing to Sinan's substantial contributions to the arts and challenging any claims regarding his lack of cultural sophistication.

The auction of this lantern is expected to generate significant interest, with estimates ranging between $150,000 and $225,000. Its presence among the other auction pieces reflects the continued fascination with Ottoman artifacts and offers insight into the era's cultural and artistic endeavors.

Source: Newsroom