Turks: A Journey of a Thousand Years, 600–1600 will take visitors on a spectacular journey following the rise of the Turks over a thousand years, as they travel from Central Asia through the central Islamic lands and enter eastern Europe. The exhibition brings together over 350 outstanding works, drawn from the celebrated collections of the Topkapý Saray Museum and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art of Istanbul.
The journey takes us from the nomadic race known as the Uyghurs to three key empires – the Seljuks (c.1040-1243), the Timurids, (c.1370-1500) and the Ottomans from 1453 to 1600.
The many wonders in this exhibition include extraordinary manuscripts by Siyah Qalen – ‘Mohamed of the Black Pen’ – one of the greatest treasures of the Topkapý Saray Library never before seen in the UK. Amongst the many Ottoman treasures on display will be an armoured kaftan of Mehmed ‘The Conqueror’, the ceremonial sword of Suleyman ‘The Magnificent’, a gold, turquoise and ruby parade helmet and mosaic wooden doors designed for the harem, the private living quarters, of the sultan.
This will be the first such major exhibition at the RA since the highly popular and critically acclaimed International Exhibition of Persian Art (1931). This ambitious exhibition further exemplifies the RA’s commitment to exploring art from world cultures, most recently Africa: The Art of a Continent (1995) and Aztecs (2002).
The Visit
For advance tickets we offer fast-track entry by-passing the Ticket Office. An English language audioguide is included with each ticket.
There will be Turkish-themed events, lectures, food, children activities, souvenirs and music throughout the exhibition.
Opening Hours
Open 7 days a week from 10am to 6pm everyday except Fridays and Saturdays open until 10pm. Last admission to the galleries 1 hour before closing.
Travel Trade
All travel trade bookings (group and independent visitors) are managed in-house.
Groups of 10+ receive a group rate £9 (admission rate £11) and must pre-book.
Email:groupbookings@royalacademy.org.uk
Tel:+44 (0) 20 7300 8027
For independent visitors we can offer a sale or return contract on adult tickets (discounts apply).
To discuss marketing opportunities please contact:
Email:pamela.bhanvra@royalacademy.org.uk
Tel:+44 (0) 20 7300 5729
Fax:+44 (0) 20 7300 8086
For further information on Turks: A Journey of a Thousand Years visit www.turks.org.uk
For information on our exhibition programme please click here.
