markturpin.comMark Turpin was commissioned to build a unique new structure for a client who desired a proper setting for her splendidly costumed Harem figures created by the talented James Carrington of London.
Mark's inspiration came from the exotic themes of soprano-diva Sarah Brightman's soaring Harem album, and also from his visit to Istanbul, with its fantastic glittering palaces along the Bosphorus. Mark toured the imperial Harem at Topkapi, palace of the Ottoman sultans, which offers veiled glimpses of a mysterious life in that ancient city. The word Sarayi is Indian for Princess. A Turkish Saray is a castle or palace. This unusual miniature interpretation is like a small oasis, a glimmer from the pages of history in a faraway place.
The decorative elements of Sarayi include individually hand laid glass tiles, with unique patterns using two color schemes of jewel tones, and a distinct palette for each level. Parallel mirrored walls reflect infinite images of detailed woven trim with threads of gold, and of the crystal and ruby chandelier. Dark fabric covered ceilings of starry skies add to the mystery, and an elegant skylight by Sharon Sipma-Hammell invites moonbeams to grace the interior.
The lower level "Room with a Fountain", is connected to the upper level by an exterior staircase. The upstairs apartment overlooks a decorative indoor pool below, and also includes a small outdoor terrace. One can imagine colorful roses floating in the pool, the fragrance of rose petals gently tossed from the balcony, drifting briefly in the air. Music descends from the rooftop lounge, where seekers look out toward distant mountains, dunes and the unknown.
The first set of photos shows Sarayi finished by the artist and delivered to the collector, followed by photos of the harem furnished by the owner, with resident characters comfortably at home in this miniature palatial setting.
Construction is solid pine with birch plywood, hand painted.
Dimensions: 20" wide, 22" high, 16" deep. Sold.
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