The Şakir Pasha Mansion, which left its mark on Büyükada’s cultural heritage, comes to life once again in a new exhibition at the Princes’ Islands Museum. The museum is hosting an exhibition focusing on the mansion of the Şakir Pasha Family, who moved to Büyükada in the early 20th century and lived there for approximately seventy-five
years. Titled Before and After: The Büyükada Şakir Pasha Mansion, the exhibition explores a century-long history, from the mansion’s construction in the second half of the 19th century to its demolition in 1978.
Curated by Adil Bali, the exhibition presents archival documents belonging to the Şakir Pasha Family, historical photographs taken in the mansion and its garden, as well as a few surviving objects once used in the house. Another exhibition, Intersecting Lives on the Bodrum-Princes’ Islands Route, is also opening in the same space. This exhibition focuses on the lives of Cevat Şakir, his second wife Hamdiye Hanım, and the beloved teacher of the islands, Süleyman Nuri Öz. Adil Bali also serves as the curator for this exhibition, which will be on display for six months at the Prince’s Islands Museum Temporary Exhibition Hall.
The Şakir Pasha Family held a significant place in history from the late Ottoman period to the early years of the Republic. Bringing together the Ottoman cultural heritage with the innovations of modernization, the family consisted of individuals who left lasting marks in their respective fields. Their stories, shaped by political events, artistic movements, and intellectual developments, go beyond a simple family narrative, offering a multifaceted and compelling historical account. The family contributed many valuable figures to the world of art and literature.
Names such as Fahrelnisa Zeid, Aliye Berger, Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı (the Fisherman of Halicarnassus), Füreya Koral, Nejad Devrim, and Şirin Devrim left a deep impact on Turkish painting, ceramics, literature, and theater.
