Gift of George Hubbard Clapp
41.125
Portrait of Mehmet II
circa 1490 (Date created)
Pen and brown and black ink on laid paper
5.875 in W
x
7.5 in H
(Image)
European
This drawing is on a handmade paper that contains a watermark depicting a six-pointed star above a hand (points aligned with the middle finger).
Bearing the inscription “Tocco in Penna di Dom. Co. Puligo. Vedasi il Vasari” in later hand.
This is the earliest drawing in the Clapp collection. Its subject has been identified as Mehmet II on the basis of its similarity to other representations of the sultan created in this period. Made during a time of increased European interest in the Ottoman Empire, the figure’s profile and turban are rendered in detailed cross-hatching, a technique popular prior to about 1500 but uncommon after that. The smaller drawings in black ink appear to have been added later by another artist.
Wall label from the exhibition The Curious Drawings of Doctor Clapp, UAG, October 24–December 6, 2019.
This is the earliest drawing in the Clapp collection. Its subject has been identified as Mehmet II on the basis of its similarity to other representations of the sultan created in this period. Made during a time of increased European interest in the Ottoman Empire, the figure’s profile and turban are rendered in detailed cross-hatching, a technique popular prior to about 1500 but uncommon after that. The smaller drawings in black ink appear to have been added later by another artist.
Wall label from the exhibition The Curious Drawings of Doctor Clapp, UAG, October 24–December 6, 2019.
In Collection
Acquired by the University of Pittsburgh from Mary Burgwin Denny in 1941. Funds for the purchase donated by George Hubbard Clapp.
Please note that cataloging is ongoing and that some information may not be complete.