Page 7 - The Age of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent

Among the sixteen states founded throughout history by the Turks, the Ottoman Em-
pire, which survived for more than six centuries (1299-1922), has a distinct place in
world history. Works of art from one of the most glorious periods of the Ottoman
Empire will be displayed for the first time in the United States during the exhibition
The Age of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent.
Throughout history, Anatolia has actually and constantly assumed the role of being a
bridge between east and west. As a result of this historical fact, the culture and civili-
zation of the Ottoman period reflect a synthesis of the cultures of east and west. Dur-
ing the reign of Sultan Süleyman I, known as "Süleyman the Magnificent/' who
ruled between 1520 and 1566, the Ottoman Empire became one of the leading states
of the world, not only in political and military arenas, but also in cultural and social
fields.
It is my belief that this exhibition, which contains some valuable samples of artifacts
of only one period of the long history of our country that possesses many richnesses,
will draw the attention and appreciation of the American public, and will contribute
to the creation of a bridge of culture between the Turkish and American nations.
Furthermore, I hope that the exhibition will be an opportunity for those American
friends who have not so far been able to visit our country to see at least some small
portion of the artistic and cultural legacy of Turkey.
While extending my thanks to those who contributed to the preparation of this exhi-
bition, I would also like to send to the American people my best wishes for their
success and happiness.

President of the
Republic of Turkey