Abstract:

Manuscripts, symbols of our cultural heritage from past to present, are preserved today in libraries, museums and private collections. The library is a precious treasure that sheds light on today with its manuscripts belonging to various dates. One of these libraries is the Süleymaniye Manuscript Library. In this article, the illuminated headings of four Quran from 19th century, which are in the Manuscript Donations collection of Süleymaniye Manuscript Library, are examined. All of the manuscripts are examples showing the decorative features of the 19th century illumination art, also known as the Westernization period in Ottoman illumination art. In this period, leaf motifs made in free form and flower depictions in naturalist style are frequently preferred for decoration. The illuminated headings of pages are important in terms of representing the art of illumination features of the period and shedding light on the art of illumination, with its page layout, pattern, motif, composition and color features.