"Dresden's art collection offers mirror on the world
Akino Yoshihara Daily Yomiuri Staff Writer
Dresden, which once flourished as the capital of the Saxony kingdom of Germany, boasts an architectural and artistic legacy to rival that of any European city.
....The collection's connection to world affairs is also reflected in its Turkish items.
In the 16th century there was great interest in all things Turkish in European courts through various exchanges with the Ottoman Empire--a great power that evoked fear and fascination among people in the West.
Saxony developed its collections of the Islamic artifacts through diplomatic negotiations and as spoils of war. At this exhibition, one room showcases a series of allegorical paintings depicting various scenes from the Long War of 1593-1606, featuring armor, sabers and scabbards inlaid with turquoise and arabesque patterns. Also on display is Meissen porcelain that features Turkish motifs, a series of prints featuring court life in Turkey and watercolors depicting a procession of cavalry dressed in Sultan costumes."
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