The Missing Culture

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

Here comes a masterpiece, a silver Aznavur zenne pitcher and bowl with sultan's signature (tugra). These pieces originate from Aznavur Pasaji in Istanbul, where collectioners and artisan shops are located. Although the place looks small from outside, it is not. You can spend the entire day there if you like antiques and collectibles. I can not give a date because either I did not take note of it then, or it was not available; can't remember. My guess is 19th century. Weight: 1,660 g Height: 39 cm. Radius: 30 cm. Estimated value: $ 30,000

Fez was a popular hat in Ottoman Empire. There were rules and regulation on how and where to wear them and people (men) took great care in keeping them in perfect shape and condition. On these Ottoman-Egyptian silver fez hangers of late 19th century, an Ottoman coat of arms was carved. Height: 27.5 cm. Estimated value: $ 25,000

This silver coffee pot bears the Sultan Abdulhamid II's (1876-1909) signature. With a pine cone lid and dragon figured handle, it was carved with geometric patterns and flowers; a rare combination for Ottoman period. After an initial price of $ 2,230, it was sold at $ 2,830 in Portakal Sanat's auction of May 2007.