Selim II

Sultan Selim II reigned from 1566 to 1574. In this large album portrait, Selim II, known as Selim the “Sot” or “Drunkard” for his love of drinking wine, is portrayed holding a cup of wine. Selim II was known as a bibliophile, patron of the fine arts, and supported building projects, notably, the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, with the imperial architect Sinan. Selim II resumed his sponsorship with Mecca and remodeling the Great Mosque’s courtyards and galleries in the Ottoman style. In Istanbul, he sponsored a major repair of Ayasofya in 1572, including two theological colleges (that never materialized) and a mausoleum. At the time of his death, the project had not been yet completed, and Selim II, buried in a nearby awning, was the first Sultan to pass away in Istanbul.  In this portrait, Sultan Selim II, is portrayed luxuriously dressed, sitting on a carpet, surrounded by opulence, which visually enforces the atmosphere of riches and finery at the Topkapi palace.

Sources:

Aga Khan Museum: https://www.agakhanmuseum.org/collection/artifact/portrait-sultan-selim-ii-akm219

Caroline Finkel, “The Sedentary Sultan” in Osman’s Dream, 163-164.