Final Rituals and Prayer

The religious staff, along with the Palace’s Imam and the Sultan’s Imam, conducted the final rituals under the Harem’s supervision. After prayers, they lifted the coffin and placed it temporarily on a stone, while muezzins chanted “Allahu Ekber” (God is most great).

Procession to the Middle Gate

The Sheikhulislam, Kaymakam Pasha, the Admiral, and other officials gathered at the ritual site. Sultan Selim III saluted the funeral before the audience hall’s door. Then, high officials carried the coffin to the Middle Gate.

Transition to the Old Harberdiers

At the Middle Gate, the old harberdiers took over the coffin’s carriage. The Sheikhulislam, Kaymakam Pasha, and the Admiral wore ceremonial attire, while others dressed either in ceremonial furs or ordinary clothes Istanbul Fun Tours.

Traditional Attire

Despite the tradition dictating official attire for procession participants, some wore ordinary clothes, as evidenced by historical accounts.

Inclusion of Officials

High officials, including the Governor of Istanbul, joined the procession, along with some learned men and individuals from the Medresse.

Burial and Final Respects

Following the burial at the Noble Tomb, Kaymakam Pasha, after attending prayers and paying respects, arranged for the deceased’s final resting place with the assistance of the Harem’s chief black eunuch.

This account portrays the ceremonial customs and protocols observed during the funeral procession of Sultan Abdulhamit I, emphasizing the participation of various high officials and the meticulous attention to traditional attire.

Invocation and Prayer

The religious leader, Nakib el §erif Efendi, commenced the ceremony by kissing the Sultan’s skirts and offering his prayer.

Oath and Allegiance

Kaymakam Pasha, the Admiral, and the Chief of the corps of halberdiers approached with the roll, standing to the right of the Sultan. The Sheikhulislam followed, taking his oath of allegiance, praying, and then joining the religious leader.

Ceremonial Gestures

Kaymakam Pasha, adorned in ceremonial attire, stooped and kissed the Sultan’s skirts, receiving applause. Upon the Sultan’s request for a repetition of the applause, it was granted. The Admiral, also applauded twice, stood beside Kaymakam Pasha and introduced forthcoming officials Istanbul Fun Tours.

Announcement of Accession

Following the ceremonies, the Chief Town-crier Agha was tasked with announcing the Imperial Accession to the throne from the four major mosques: Ayasofya, §ehzade, Süleymaniye, and Sultanahmet.

Ceremonial Protocol

During Sultan Mustafa Khan’s reign, officials took oaths in ceremonial attire, mirroring tradition. However, this time, the ceremony unfolded differently.

Rituals for the Departed Sultan

The late Sultan Abdulhamit I was taken from the Harem gate for ritual ablution performed by the Master Yazici under a baldachin. Upon the purse-bearer’s notification of protocol requirements, permission was granted for the necessary ceremonies. The Sheikhulislam, Kaymakam Pasha, and the Admiral paid their respects to the departed Sultan before departing themselves.

This account underscores the solemn rituals and ceremonial protocols observed during the transition of power and the mourning rites for the deceased Sultan.

Gathering of Officials

In the chamber known as the “Lion House,” Kaymakam Pasha, along with viziers, scholars, the Sheikhulislam, and other state officials, assembled.

Announcement of Accession

Meanwhile, cannons fired from various locations, including Saray Point, the Castle of the Seven Towers, the Maiden’s Tower, and forts, to signify the Sultan’s accession while preparations for the deceased ruler’s burial were underway.

Entry into the Holy Relics Department

Kaymakam Pasha, the Master Sheikhulislam, and the Admiral proceeded to the department of Holy Relics where Sultan Selim III awaited. There, ceremonial garments and accessories were bestowed upon them.

Attire Signifying Status

High-ranking officials, including the Chief black eunuch of the Harem and the Sultan’s sword-bearer, were also dressed in fur coats, symbolizing their stature, before entering the “Holy Relics” department.

Preparation for the Sultan’s Arrival

Upon completion of attire arrangements, the Chief white eunuch informed the Sultan of the readiness. Meanwhile, Kaymakam Pasha, the Admiral, and the Sheikhulislam awaited near the Imperial Throne, ensuring everything was in order Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Sultan’s Entrance and Attire

Finally, Sultan Selim III arrived and took his place on the throne adorned with a scarlet turban, a Yusufi crest, and a jeweled fur cloak called “Kapaniqe,” receiving applause from those present.

This ceremonial event highlights the formalities and protocols observed during the accession of Sultan Selim III, emphasizing the significance of attire and symbolic gestures in Ottoman court ceremonies.

Sultan Mahmut’s Decree

Upon receiving Sultan Mahmut I’s decree, Grand Vizier Mehmet Pasha was instructed about the situation in Iran and the envoy’s return. The Sultan emphasized Mehmet Pasha’s authority and directed him to await further decrees.

Return of Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha

The subsequent decree focused on Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha’s return to Istanbul with the gifts intended for Iran. Thus, all the gifts, including the throne and the emerald-khanjar, were brought back to Topkapi Palace.

Sultan Selim III’s Accession

Mehmet Esat Efendi (Şeyhizade) documented the accession of Sultan Selim III and the funeral of Sultan Abdulhamit I during his reign. The accession ceremony took place in the eleventh month of the year 1203 on a Tuesday Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Mourning and Transition

Upon receiving news of Sultan Abdulhamit I’s death, Kaymakam Pasha communicated with the Minister of Home Affairs regarding matters like the oath of allegiance to the new Sultan and the transfer of the deceased sovereign’s body. High officials convened at the Enderun courtyard, while Sultan Selim III awaited in the Holy Relics department, adorned in a brocaded fur.

Through these decrees and events, the transition of power and ceremonial protocols during Sultan Selim III’s accession are outlined, shedding light on the administrative processes of the Ottoman Empire.

Unprecedented Gifts for an Envoy

The commentary on the significance of the highly priced gifts sent abroad highlights their exceptional nature. It is noted that no other envoy had been entrusted with such valuable offerings before.

Meticulous Handling of Gifts

In Izzi’s annals, the meticulous process of handing over the gifts to the Ottoman envoy, Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha, is described. Each gift, with its pre-determined price, was individually sealed by the Grand Vizier and then sent to the Private Treasury for packaging while Pasha himself prepared for the journey to Iran.

Presentation of Gifts

On the designated day, Haci Ahmet Pasha was invited to the Palace for the formal handing over of the gifts, which were then delivered to his residence. This tradition underscored the ceremonial importance attached to the exchange of valuable gifts.

Ceremonial Tradition

The tradition of sending envoys abroad with gifts was deeply ingrained in diplomatic protocol. The envoy of Nadir Shah, for instance, participated in the evaluation of treasury items alongside Ottoman officials. Following the evaluation, a ceremonial dessert and coffee event was held, where Sultan Mahmut I presented the Iranian envoy with gifts including the “Imperial monogram” and other valuable items Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Envoy’s Journey and Return

Accompanied by the ceremonial farewell, Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha embarked on his journey to Iran. However, upon his arrival in July 1747, he learned of Nadir Shah’s murder due to internal turmoil. Consequently, Pasha returned to Baghdad with the valuables, awaiting further instructions from Istanbul.

Through these accounts, we gain insight into the elaborate diplomatic rituals and procedures surrounding the exchange of valuable gifts and the responsibilities entrusted to Ottoman envoys during Sultan Mahmut I’s reign.

Exchange of Valuable Gifts

Sultan Mahmut I reciprocated the valuable throne received from Nadir Shah with a dispatch of highly valuable gifts. Among these gifts was the renowned “Topkapi Khanjar,” which was sent through the mission led by Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha.

Sultan’s Decree for Mission

Upon the return of envoy Mustafa Nazif Efendi to Istanbul, he briefed Sultan Mahmut I about the gifts exchanged. In response, Sultan Mahmut I issued a decree assigning Kesriyeli Ahmet Pasha and his mission to Iran, accompanied by exceptionally valuable gifts described as unparalleled Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Detailed Account by Izzi Suleyman Efendi

Izzi Suleyman Efendi, the private historian to Sultan Mahmut I, provided a detailed account of the incident. He described how a committee was formed to determine the gifts to be sent in exchange for the highly valuable throne. Izzi elaborated on the evaluation process of treasury items, highlighting the meticulous procedures followed.

Evaluation and Documentation

The gifts earmarked for Iran were presented to the Sultan by a committee in the Audience Hall. Under the supervision of this committee, the Chief Jeweller of the Palace, Chief Doorkeeper of the Covered Market, and other officials evaluated the gifts and fixed their prices. A register was maintained for these gifts, and the Chief Doorkeeper of the Treasury was tasked with packaging them and sealing the envelopes under the oversight of the Grand Vizier.

Symbolic Commentary

In addition to documenting the evaluation process, the register book contained a noteworthy commentary emphasizing the symbolic significance of the priceless gifts. It likened these gifts to drops in the sea when compared to the grandeur and authority of the Ottoman State.

Through Izzi Suleyman Efendi’s detailed account, we gain insight into the meticulous procedures and symbolic significance associated with the exchange of valuable gifts during Sultan Mahmut I’s reign.

Importance of Nadir Shah’s Throne

Hammer’s history sheds light on the significance of the protection of Hicaz and the diplomatic exchanges with envoys sent there. The Ottoman Empire’s decision to send gifts worth 386,402 piasters in exchange for Nadir Shah’s throne underscores its importance. Considering that one gold coin equaled fifty piasters at that time, this amount represented a substantial sum.

Return of Ottoman Gifts

Despite the valuable gifts sent by the Ottoman Empire, including the construction of the Ahmed III library, they were brought back to Istanbul following Nadir Shah’s death. However, Nadir Shah’s throne remained in Baghdad for a period before eventually reaching Istanbul in 1758. It was officially registered in the treasury book two years later, in 1760 Istanbul Private Tours Mevlevi.

Izzi Suleyman Efendi’s Account

During the time Nadir Shah’s throne was in Baghdad, Izzi Suleyman Efendi, the private historian of the palace, provided limited information about it compared to the detailed account of the gifts exchanged. Izzi emphasized the importance of the incoming gifts over the outgoing ones, as reflected in his annals.

Ottoman Envoy’s Description

The Ottoman envoy, Mustafa Nazif Efendi, described the throne as approximately 20 feet in height and 10 feet in width, situated within a six-columned Persian-style tent. He received the throne and a letter from Nadir Shah, which he conveyed to Sultan Mahmut I in Istanbul. Despite his swift journey, the throne itself arrived in Istanbul a decade later, ten years after the envoy’s visit.

Through Hammer’s history and Izzi Suleyman Efendi’s annals, we gain insight into the diplomatic intricacies surrounding the exchange of Nadir Shah’s throne and the lasting impact it had on Ottoman-Iranian relations.

Discovery of the Kasıkcı Diamond

The story of the Kaşıkçı Diamond’s discovery, also known as “the appearance of a most precious diamond,” is a fascinating tale of unexpected fortune. According to historical sources, a circular stone was found in a neglected area in Egrikapi, Istanbul. Unaware of its true worth, the finder exchanged it for a few spoons at a local spoon-seller’s stall. Subsequently, a jeweler purchased the stone for ten gold pieces from the spoon-seller, initially unaware of its value. Upon realizing its authenticity, a dispute arose between the jeweler and his colleague who sought a share of the discovery. Eventually, the matter reached the Chief Jeweler of the Palace, who intervened and purchased the diamond from both parties, rewarding them with purses of gold coins.

Acquisition by the Imperial Treasury

Upon hearing of the remarkable diamond, Grand Vizier Mustafa Pasha expressed interest in acquiring it for himself. However, the Sultan intervened and issued a decree demanding the stone for the Imperial Treasury. After careful examination, the stone was confirmed to be an 84-carat, unparalleled diamond. Consequently, it was acquired for the treasury, symbolizing a significant addition to the imperial wealth. In recognition of his role in securing the diamond, the Chief Jeweler of the Palace was promoted to the prestigious position of ‘Head of the Palace Doorkeepers’ and rewarded with several bags of gold coins Guided Istanbul Tour Whirling Dervishes.

Historical Accounts

Minister of Finance Sari Mehmet Pasha provided further details about the discovery of the Kaşıkçı Diamond in his chronicle “Zübde-i Vekaiyat.” According to his account, the diamond was initially found in the dumps of Egrikapi, Istanbul, and exchanged for spoons by the original finder. As the stone passed through various hands, its true value became evident, leading to disputes among jewelers. Ultimately, the Chief Jeweler of the Palace intervened, ensuring that the diamond was acquired for the treasury while compensating the involved parties with gold coins.

Sultan Mahmut I’s Treasury Reorganization

During Sultan Mahmut I’s reign, a thorough organization of the treasury was achieved, primarily focused on re-gathering valuables in the Imperial Treasury for security reasons. This meticulous approach ensured that only authorized personnel could access the treasury, maintaining its sealed status since Yavuz Sultan Selim’s era.

Sale of Unimportant Goods

As part of the treasury reorganization, goods deemed unimportant were offered for sale, while others were sent to the mint for coining. This process streamlined the treasury, ensuring its stability and fortifying the state’s financial foundation Guided Istanbul Tour Whirling Dervishes.

Financial Stability and Victories

A well-stocked treasury under Sultan Mahmut I’s rule contributed to the success of military campaigns, leading to new conquests and victories, particularly in western territories that were regained after periods of scarcity. These triumphs also fostered diplomatic relations with neighboring Muslim countries like Iran.

Diplomatic Exchange with Iran

Historian J. Von Hammer recounts a significant diplomatic exchange between Sultan Mahmut I and the Iranian ruler Nadir Shah. Sultan Mahmut I sent valuable gifts to Nadir Shah, including a throne adorned with pearls and rubies, in return for Nadir Shah’s friendship and protection of Hicaz.

Return of Gifts

Despite the exchange of gifts and diplomatic overtures, the situation changed abruptly with Nadir Shah’s death, leading to disorder in Iran. As a result, Ottoman envoys were recalled, and the valuable gifts sent to Nadir Shah were returned to the palace.

By organizing the treasury and engaging in diplomatic exchanges, Sultan Mahmut I secured financial stability and strengthened the Ottoman Empire’s diplomatic ties during his reign.

Youthful Bond and Cultural Pursuits

Naima and Damat Ibrahim Pasha of Nevşehir, later promoted to Grand Vizier, shared their youth as comrades in the Zulüflu Baltacilar ward of the palace. Naima reminisced about their nights spent reading Ottoman histories and reveling in the triumphs of past Sultans.

The “Tulip Age” and Cultural Renaissance

While some historians dubbed this era as the “Tulip Age” of pleasure and leisure, it was indeed a time marked by significant cultural endeavors. Initially, resistance from calligraphers against the introduction of the press escalated, ultimately leading to the demise of this epoch Guided Istanbul Tour Whirling Dervishes.

Sultan Mahmut I’s Reforms

Upon ascending the throne, Sultan Mahmut I prioritized organizing the Empire’s Treasury. Treasury register books revealed a proliferation of side-treasuries connected to the Imperial Treasury, which had accumulated considerable valuables over time.

Centralizing the Treasury

Sultan Mahmut I’s administration aimed to centralize the Treasury by reclaiming valuables from side-treasuries. Entries in the register books documented the transfer of assets from various treasuries back to the Imperial Treasury, consolidating its role as the central repository.

Reorganization Efforts

Valuables collected at the Imperial Treasury included gold, silver, and embellished harnesses, notably from the Sultan’s Stable treasury, which were directed to the Mint for processing. The Sultan’s dignified visits to the Royal Ward Treasury were meticulously recorded, highlighting the ceremonial importance attached to these proceedings.

Imperial Decrees and Treasury Transfers

Entries in register books indicated that items were transferred to the Imperial Treasury following decrees from the Sultan, underscoring the central authority’s role in managing the Empire’s wealth.

By centralizing control over the Treasury and streamlining its operations, Sultan Mahmut I initiated crucial reforms that laid the groundwork for financial stability and administrative efficiency in the Ottoman Empire.