Description:

MAJMA’ AL-ANSAB SILSILA NAMA: AN OTTOMAN GENEALOGY MANUSCRIPT, 18TH CENTURY
Ottoman Turkey, 18th century

Description:
Arabic and Turkish manuscript on paper, written in naskh script in black and red ink. A finely illustrated genealogical chart tracing the lineage of Sultan Mahmud I (r. 1730–1754) back to Adam, incorporating the Prophet Muhammad, various caliphs, and important religious and political figures. The manuscript uses an elegant horizontal silsila nama layout with names inscribed within colored roundels — red, blue, green, and black — connected by red lines. Text panels interspersed between the diagrams offer explanations and contextual information.

This manuscript exemplifies Ottoman interest in legitimizing dynastic authority through sacred genealogy. The use of bold primary colors in concentric circular diagrams follows a stylistic model associated with 18th-century Ottoman court ateliers. Such genealogical works served both religious and political purposes, reflecting continuity with Islamic prophetic traditions and imperial lineage.

Comparable examples:

  • A similar Ottoman genealogy manuscript from the 18th century sold at Sotheby’s, London, 24 April 2013, Lot 42, for £8,125.

  • A Safavid genealogy manuscript, dated 17th century, featuring similar diagrammatic layouts, sold at Christie’s, London, 5 October 2010, Lot 138, for £10,000.

  • An Ottoman illustrated genealogy scroll tracing lineage to the Prophet, dated circa 1700, sold at Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art, 11 June 2018, Lot 65, for £7,500.

Note:
Genealogical manuscripts like this were often produced for high-ranking officials and royalty, reinforcing legitimacy and divine favor. The vibrant color coding and refined layout suggest this copy was a courtly commission.

 


Length x Width: 40 x 32cm

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May 6, 2025 1:00 PM BST
London, United Kingdom

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