Rotational Ornament: Ottoman Door Knockers & Roundels of Istanbul

Online Practical Drawing Workshop
14–15 February 2026
3:00–5:00 pm (UK time)

Step into the ceremonial thresholds of Istanbul and explore the exquisite Ottoman door knockers and bosses — small architectural elements where geometry, sound, and craft meet.

In this two-day online workshop, we will study both the hanging knockers and the circular plates and studs behind them, known in Turkish as kapı tokmağı (door knocker) and kapı göbeği / kapı topuzu (central boss or door stud). These fittings transform the act of entering into a moment of ritual, where touch, sound, and symmetry are carefully composed.

What We’ll Explore

Day One — Structure, Symbol & Material
We begin by analysing historic Ottoman examples from across the city, mapping their radial divisions, rotational axes, and hidden construction lines. We’ll look closely at the materials and making — typically cast brass or bronze, then hand-chased and engraved, often darkened in the recesses and burnished on the high points through centuries of use. You’ll learn how circular fields become stages for interlace, vegetal motifs, and ribbon-like forms.

Day Two — Drawing, Refinement & Shading
Building on this framework, you’ll construct a full roundel and boss system of your own. We’ll refine linework, develop depth through shading, and explore how light plays across metal relief to suggest weight, patina, and wear — bringing the ornament into architectural presence.

You Will Learn To

• Construct rotational and radial symmetry systems

• Analyse the geometry behind kapı tokmağı and kapı göbeği designs

• Develop motifs from a single generating curve within a circular field

• Create seamless circular repeats and rhythmic linear sequences

• Apply shading techniques to suggest cast and chased metal surfaces

Who This Is For

All levels are welcome — from beginners to experienced artists, designers, and craftspeople. The class is taught step by step, guiding you through each stage of analysis, construction, and refinement.

What You’ll Leave With

By the end of the workshop, you will have a fully rendered ornamental study inspired by the doors of Ottoman Istanbul, alongside a deeper understanding of how geometry, material, and ritual shape architectural detail.

A full recording of both sessions will be provided, giving you lifetime access to revisit the process and continue developing your work.