22 Jan-12 April 2005. The Royal Academy presents this fascinating exhibition tracing the artistic and cultural heritage of the Turks. However, it by no means deals exclusively with the Turks of modern day Turkey. For instance, the art of the Uigurs, a nomadic race to be found on the borders of modern day China and Kazakhstan is featured and the exhibition explores the legacies of three great Turkic empires: the Seljuks (1040-1243), the Timurids (1370-1500), and the Ottomans (1453 1600). The exhibits include over 350 textiles, manuscripts, calligraphies, woodwork, metalwork and ceramics reflecting the cultural and artistic diversity that reached its high point in the splendours of the Ottoman Empire. The exhibits from Topkap Saray Museum and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art of Istanbul, have never been exhibited outside Turkey. An impressive 13th century Seljuk carpet from the Konya mosque is on display as well as a 30-metre long Timurid scroll.

Open seven days a week from 10.00 to 18.00, and until 22.00 on Fridays. Closest tube stations are Piccadilly and Green Park. Oxford Circus and Bond Street are approximately 10 minutes away on foot. ()