AN OTTOMAN HILYEH SIGNED EL HAJJ AHMAD KAMIL, TURKEY, DATED 1353 AH/1934 AD
A Fine Ottoman Hilya, signed Haj' Ahmad, in Arabic, illuminated manuscript on paper (Ottoman Turkey, dated 1353 AH/1934 AD) single leaf, text panel at the top with the blessing in a single line of gilt muhaqqaq outlined in black, then a circular text-block with 9 lines gilt naskh outlined in black, 4 circular devices extending outwards from this with the names of the Caliphs, then another single line of muhaqqaq in another text block below with the colophon at the bottom of the page, containing another 5 lines gilt naskh outlined in black, gilt roundels marking the verses throughout, each decorated in various intricate designs, floral decorations and gilt borders in fine and very detailed designs, all heightened in gilt, framed within multiple borders of spiralling vines in red and turquoise, mounted on thick card.
An exceptionally fine example of the Ottoman Hilya following the layout popularised by Hafiz Osman. Each of the circular devices marking the verses, here are individually designed and the text is executed in gold by a very fine hand and skillfully outlined in black.
69.5 by 50.5 cm.

Ahmad Kamil Aqdik (1861-1941) learned thuluth and naskh from the famous calligrapher, Sami Afandi. He also studied diwani and jaly diwani. Hajj Ahmad Kamil was appointed scribe of letters from the office of the sultanate. From 1936 Hajj Ahmad Kamil taught at the Academy of Fine Arts until his death. He was the last person to obtain the title of "Raisu al-Khatthathin" which he officially received on 10 Shawwal 1333/21 Auguste 1915. The title was allotted to him under the reign of Usmaniyyah Daula for the most khattath experienced and best known.