The mighty and captivating Ottomans, their history, culture, and art, so beloved by readers of "Korolyok — The Singing Bird" and viewers of "The Magnificent Century" — as presented by a professional art historian. Accessible, engaging, and very beautiful. This book is a true immersion into the mysterious and enchanting world of the East. Art historian and Ottoman art specialist Asya Gimborg tells of the emergence, rise, and fall of the Ottoman Empire, introduces us to the intrigues of the harem, and acquaints us with the sultans and their favorite concubines. Together with the author, we will explore the most interesting (and even secret) corners of the Ottoman Empire, visit magnificent palaces, mosques, cathedrals, and museums. We will discuss the history of Ottoman architecture and the features of interiors. We will talk about the secrets of harem life and the secret code of Ottoman ornaments. We will learn what connects Maria Antoinette to Constantinople, what echoes of the great Ottomans can be found in modern art, where the legendary Orient Express departed from, who the şehzades were and why they lived in cages, how to paint the portrait of a sultan if an audience with him is impossible, and where the most delicious Turkish delight is sold. The book is written in a light and accessible style, with a sincere love of the East felt in every line. The structure of the book allows starting from any chapter, and at the end readers will find a pleasant bonus — alphabets of Ottoman ornaments and carpets compiled by the author. Incredibly useful and fascinating reading! From the author: In this book, I will introduce you to the amazing world of the East: I will dispel all myths about harems, tell you about oriental carpets and the most popular ornaments, you will learn about the status of women in the East, what the female sultanate was, how Ottoman fashion changed; and you will meet a whole galaxy of orientalists from various parts of Europe — our guides will be painters, couturiers, ballet masters, architects captivated by the East. For whom is this book: For everyone interested in the East and Eastern art.