Prof. Dr. İsmail Erünsal's rare manuscript collection donated to the library
Priceless rare works constituting cultural heritage have been made available to researchers after preservation and digitization processes.
The rare manuscript collection, which Prof. Dr. İsmail Erünsal built up over the years using his own resources, has been donated to the Süleymaniye Manuscript Library. The works were made accessible in digital format following digitization efforts that were completed in a short period.
Donation of the Collection to the Library
Prof. Dr. İsmail Erünsal, known for his work in the field of Ottoman book and library history, donated his extensive collection, which he formed through his personal means, to the Süleymaniye Manuscript Library on August 6.
Digitization and Preparation Process
The Presidency of Turkish Manuscripts meticulously completed the maintenance, restoration, digitization, and cataloging processes of the works in a short period of about two months, making the collection ready for research.
Şeyh Galib's Handwritten Divan
Among the most striking pieces of the collection is the Divan penned in Şeyh Galib's own handwriting when he was just 18 to 19 years old.
500-Year-Old Rare Works
In addition to Şeyh Galib's work, the collection includes rare manuscripts dating back over 500 years such as the 1523 Dîvân-ı Emir Şâhî, official price regulation ledgers (narh defterleri), ambassadorial reports (sefaretnames), and various literary and Sufi works.
Worldwide Digital Access
Unique, rare, and author-attributed works can now be examined from all over the world. This valuable archive can be accessed via the official website of the Presidency of Turkish Manuscripts.