Commission: Award Winning Sultans' Wives Portraits

In 2010, Annie Deneyici was commissioned to create a series of 45 portraits for Hotel Sultania, a boutique class hotel located in the historic heart of Istanbul.

The project focused on the wives of Ottoman sultans and became one of the most significant commissioned works in Annie’s career. Over a period of six months, she completed and framed all 45 portraits for display throughout the hotel’s themed rooms.

To approach each figure with depth and sensitivity, Annie studied their biographies and historical backgrounds. Her aim was not only to paint their likeness, but to reflect their presence, character and the stories carried through their lives.

Through this body of work, Annie brought together portrait painting, historical research and site specific storytelling. Each portrait was created to give hotel guests a closer connection to the women behind Ottoman history and to the atmosphere of the space itself.

Today, the portraits remain on display at Hotel Sultania, continuing to welcome visitors from around the world. The project stands as an important example of Annie Deneyici’s ability to create large scale commissioned work with cultural depth, visual elegance and a strong sense of place.

Hotel Sultania has received recognition from TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards over the years, and Annie’s portraits have become part of the hotel’s distinctive identity and guest experience.