1980s Soviet metal pin of Bakhchysarai (бахчисарай), a town in central Crimea, in representation of Crimean roses
Moorish gardens were widespread in Europe in the VIII-XIII centuries under the influence of Arab culture after the Muslim invasion of Spain in 711. Roses have been the main flowering plants in Moorish gardens and Muslims were fond of roses to an extend that they attached purifying force to those flowers. One legend was that a white rose grew from Mohammed’s drops of sweat during his night ascent to the heaven. Gradually, a real rose cult appeared in the countries of Islamic world. Poets praised not only the rose, but also the image which was associated with the beauty of the flower. A woman was compared with a blooming rose; a girl was compared with a bud; and fading of a rose was likened to the transience of a human life. All Muslim rulers encouraged and strongly promoted the cultivation of roses and rose oil production, both in their own and in the conquered countries
Legends about the symbolic, divine meaning of roses have been moved to the Crimea by Turks, and eventually became essential part of the Crimean Tatar culture. With the development of the Crimean Tatar ethnos and Khan’s reign, roses have been paid more and more attention, especially in the capital of Bakhchysarai. The Khan’s Palace was the heart of the old city and its most ancient part. The ruler Adil Sahib Giray finished its construction approximately in the middle of the XVI century. The palace, which occupies an area of 4 hectares today (and even more in the past), included the gardens, surrounding the main buildings. Hence, Bakhchysarai was called 'Palace-Garden'
Pictures
- Khan's Palace in Bakhchysarai, Crimea
- Ruler of the Ottoman Empire of the XV century, Mehmed II Fatih (“the Conqueror”) was depicted with a rose in his hand on his portraits. He conquered the Crimea in 1475
More about roses of the Bakhchysarai HERE
VINTAGE CONDITION
excellent
excellent
MATERIAL
metal, enamel
MEASUREMENT
1 x 3.2cm
items may come with minor flaws due to pre-loved wear. we are advocates of buying used and hope you can appreciate this unique piece and its character. items are pre-cleaned if needed and any major flaws will try to be noted.