Selim Kahn III, from Portraits of the Emperors of Turkey

This portrait presents Selim III, an Ottoman sultan who reigned from 1789 to 1807, in a formal mezzotint, a printmaking technique known for its rich tonal range. He is shown in profile, facing left, with a dignified expression. The hand-coloring, applied with brush and watercolor, brings vibrant life to his attire, particularly the deep reds and blues of his robes and the intricate patterns of his turban. This print is part of a series depicting the emperors of Turkey, created in 1815, years after Selim III's rule ended. The careful rendering of his features and the luxurious detail of his clothing suggest a desire to convey the power and prestige of the Ottoman Empire, even as it faced significant challenges during this period.