The scent of old paper and polished wood hangs heavy in the air, a silent testament to centuries past. In the heart of Ankara, on Kuleli Street, a newly reimagined space has opened its doors, inviting visitors on a profound journey through time. The Maarif Art and Antique Gallery, a vision brought to life by Ahmet Erhan Çelik in 2012, has undergone a significant transformation, expanding its footprint and enriching its offerings to become a true gateway to history, not just for Ankara, but for all of Turkey.
A New Chapter for Maarif: Expansion and Reimagination
Originally established in 2012, Maarif has always been a sanctuary for those with a passion for the past. Its recent relocation and extensive renovation, a five-month endeavor, have elevated it to new heights. The gallery now boasts a sprawling 650 square meters of indoor space, complemented by a 350-square-meter outdoor area and garden. This expansion has allowed for the creation of a multifaceted cultural hub, housing not only an antique shop and art gallery but also a delightful café and a rare book section.
As one steps inside, the artistic spirit of Maarif immediately envelops them. Even the café, a space designed for contemplation and conversation, is adorned with artistic expressions. During a recent visit, an artist known as “Uzay Çöpü” (Space Junk) was putting the finishing touches on a captivating piece on one of the café’s columns, adding a distinctive flair to the ambiance.
A Guided Tour Through Time with Ahmet Erhan Çelik
Ahmet Erhan Çelik, the visionary behind Maarif, is more than just a gallery owner; he is a passionate storyteller and a knowledgeable guide. His enthusiasm for the artifacts is infectious, as he recounts the historical significance of each piece as if he himself had created it. Our journey began in the rare book section, where a beautifully bound Ottoman-era music notebook immediately caught the eye, its delicate pages whispering tales of forgotten melodies.
Çelik then presented a large, antique book filled with intricate engravings, using it as a springboard to explain the true essence of an antique. “We operate with the correct definition of antique,” he explained. “We are not really interested in decorative materials. It needs to have a story. When people hear ‘antique,’ they often think of things older than 100 years. This is not entirely accurate. Before age, rarity comes first. But one needs to know its lineage.”
Treasures from Centuries Past: Furniture, Clocks, and Photographs
The gallery’s collection is a testament to the rich tapestry of history, featuring 17th and 18th-century furniture from various geographies, Ottoman-era clocks, ceramic decorative items, and a plethora of exquisitely crafted antique products. Each item has a narrative, a connection to a bygone era. Among the most striking exhibits are old photographs of Ankara, some painstakingly captured during the Ottoman period, requiring hours of exposure. A particularly captivating piece is an Ottoman-era “harem selamlık” screen, its intricate craftsmanship so delicate that even today, no master can be found to complete its missing sections.
Pioneers of Turkish Art and Contemporary Voices
The art gallery section is equally compelling, featuring an exhibition titled “Pioneers,” showcasing works by artists born between 1850 and 1900. This prestigious collection includes pieces by renowned figures such as Hoca Ali Rıza, Hikmet Onat, İbrahim Çallı, Mihri Müşfik, Feyhaman Duran, Namık İsmail, Mihri Müşfik, Avni Lifij, and Naci Kalmukoğlu. Another exhibition features the works of contemporary artists like Neş’e Erdok, Memet Güreli, Ahmet Umur Deniz, Hüsnü Koldaş, Resul Aytemür, Mehmet Güleryüz, and Feyyaz Yaman. While these particular pieces concluded their exhibition on January 18th, new works are soon to be unveiled for art enthusiasts.
According to Çelik, everything displayed in the gallery is available for acquisition through various methods, including salon auctions, public auctions, online auctions, home sales, and market organizations, offering a diverse array of opportunities for collectors.
A Glimpse into the Gallipoli Campaign: The 1/25,000 Scale War Map
One of the most historically significant exhibits is a 1/25,000 scale war map, prepared by military personnel under the command of Mehmet Şevki Paşa, considered the first cartographer of these lands in the modern sense. This invaluable map was utilized during the Çanakkale-Gallipoli wars. Printed in 1914-1915 at the General Staff Printing House, it is believed that only 300 sets, each comprising 61 sheets, were produced. The maps were meticulously prepared with the axis of the Hagia Sophia dome serving as the prime meridian.
Tragically, some of these maps were lost on the battlefields, while others were taken by the British army to their homeland during the occupation of Istanbul. The Royal War Museum in England houses a set of 55 sheets, and a complete set can be found at the Australian War Memorial Museum. This exhibit offers a poignant reminder of a pivotal moment in Turkish history.
Maarif Art and Antique Gallery is more than just a collection of old objects; it is a living narrative, a place where history breathes and art inspires. It is a testament to the enduring power of culture and the dedicated individuals who strive to preserve and share it.
Source: https://www.cumhuriyet.com.tr/cumhuriyet-pazar/ankara-da-tarihe-acilan-kapi-2473025
