Ottoman War Academy Diploma

War Academy was one the prestigious schools of the Ottoman era and this diploma with an Ottoman coat of arms on top, is one the remnants of those days, dated 1911. No, it is not valuable because the school literally spit out officers to accommodate one war after another.

Nothing has changed much since then, except the names, of course. In order to superficially comply with the "peace" theme of 20th century, War Academy has become General Service School and Ministry of War is now called Ministry of Defense as in most parts of the world. Exegesis at its finest.

Dimensions: 74x50 cm.
Estimated value: $150

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Chrysanthemums by Froidure

A still life of chrysanthemums by E. Faux Froidure, watercolor on paper. Dated 1902 and signed by the artist, it is a souvenir from passers by. Still life painting is the only form that I have a hard time to reconcile with. Not that I despise the work, but drawing still objects as if taking pictures of them is something beyond me. Show me the most abstract painting, I am comfortable, but figs or apples on a plate, no.

Dimensions: 95x120 cm.
Estimated value: $12,000

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Bohemian Hookah

Now that we know pot is good for your brain, it is time to set sail to new adventures. Why not start with this beautiful Bohemian hookah of nineteenth century? Extraordinary designs with a silver laden top, it is a typical luxury item of Sultan Abdulmecid (1839-1861) era. Other than it is good for your soul, I can't guarantee anything else.

Height: 45 cm.
Estimated value: $7,000

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