A magnificent landmark on Istanbul’s skyline, the Süleymaniye Mosque was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and built by Mimar Sinan between 1550 and 1557. Its architectural harmony is defined by the grand main dome—26.5 meters in diameter—supported by two semi-domes and expanded through paired exedras, creating a masterfully balanced spatial composition. Rising to 53 meters, the dome evokes a powerful sense of openness and spiritual grandeur.
The mosque interior is illuminated by 128 windows and dozens of oil lamps. To prevent soot from staining the walls—and to make use of the collected soot for ink production—an ingenious soot chamber (is odası) was constructed above the entrance, reflecting the refined functional intelligence of Ottoman architecture.
The dome calligraphy is attributed by some sources to Ahmed Karahisari (1469?–1556), and by others to both Ahmed Karahisari and his student Hasan Çelebi. These inscriptions include Qur’anic verses and selected hadith texts, created not only as decoration but also as spiritual messages, inviting contemplation through the art of calligraphy.
The motifs on the Süleymaniye Istif Sugar Bowl were created in inspiration of the mosque’s decorative repertoire and dome inscriptions. The calligraphic texts on the piece are arranged in istif—a stacked and harmonized calligraphic composition—echoing the rhythmic elegance of monumental Ottoman script.
Crafted from handmade smoky green glass, the Süleymaniye Istif Sugar Bowl features raised relief patterns that are meticulously hand-decorated using 24-carat gold and glass paints, showcasing refined artisanal craftsmanship and sacred architectural heritage.
Suleymaniye Istif Sugar Bowl
Diameter: 13.5 cm
Height: 18.5 cm
100% handmade
Cleaning Suggestion: Wipe with a dry clothMade in Turkey
