Examples of Free Cloud Ribbon Motifs in Medallions of Ottoman Bookbinding

Abstract

The most basic and central decoration element of the Ottoman bookbinding is the medallion. The medallions which located in the center of the cover and the envelope flap, have been decorated with many different motifs throughout history. One of these motifs is cloud motif, it is important in point of its connection with the sky dragon which is regarded as the origin of water, abundance and rebirth in Turkish mythology. This study is prepared to reveal the examples of free cloud ribbon motifs on cover and envelope flap medallions of Ottoman bookbinding that located in various museums and libraries. At the beginning of the work, the varieties of the cloud motif, its historical adventure, its background and its use in the art of Ottoman bookbinding are given. 8 types of free cloud ribbon motifs of medallions of bookbinding that are worked on, are presented with drawing in the table. In the following tables, description, examples and bookbinding technique of each type are included. The purpose of this study is to reveal the diversity of cloud motifs used in medallions of bookbinding, to determine the techniques of the medallion on which the motifs and to create a scientific knowledge about the use of the cloud motif in Art of Ottoman Bookbinding.