According to Çelebi, the printing process in Istanbul began with the preparation of the typeface, which was made of metal. The typeface was arranged by hand into pages, which were then inked and printed using a wooden press. The press consisted of a flat surface, a frame to hold the type, and a screw mechanism to apply pressure to the paper.
The paper used in the printing process was made from mulberry trees and was cut into sheets of various sizes. The ink used was made from a mixture of soot, oil, and gum Arabic. The ink was applied to the typeface using a roller, and then the paper was pressed onto the inked typeface. Çelebi noted that the printing press in Istanbul was operated by skilled craftsmen who had been trained in the art of printing. These craftsmen were highly respected and enjoyed a special status in society. They were responsible for producing a wide range of books and manuscripts, which were then sold in markets and bookstores throughout the city.
Çelebi also described the layout of the printing press, noting that it was located in a large courtyard surrounded by high walls. The courtyard was designed to provide ample space for the printing process and to protect the press from the elements. The walls were adorned with intricate designs and carvings, which added to the beauty of the printing press.
Overall, Çelebi's description of the printing press in Istanbul provides a fascinating insight into the process of printing during the Ottoman period. His account highlights the importance of printing in disseminating knowledge and information, and underscores the significance of the printing press as a technological innovation that transformed the world of publishing.
Istanbul during the Ottoman period:
• The establishment of the printing press in Istanbul marked a significant shift in the way that books and manuscripts were produced and distributed. Prior to the introduction of the printing press, books had to be copied by hand, which was a slow and laborious process. With the introduction of the printing press, it became possible to produce multiple copies of a work quickly and efficiently, which helped to disseminate knowledge and information more widely.
• One of the most famous works printed in Istanbul during the Ottoman period was the first Ottoman Turkish dictionary, known as the "Kamus-ı Türki". The dictionary was compiled by an Ottoman scholar named Şemseddin Sami, and it was printed in Istanbul in 1876. The "Kamus-ı Türki" was a landmark work in Ottoman Turkish lexicography, and it remained the standard Turkish dictionary for many years.
• Printing presses in Istanbul were often located near markets and bookstores, which helped to create a vibrant literary culture in the city. The production of printed books and manuscripts was an important part of the economy of Istanbul, and it helped to foster a sense of community among scholars, writers, and readers.
• The use of printing presses in Istanbul was not limited to the production of books and manuscripts. Printing was also used to produce a wide range of other materials, including official documents, advertisements, and even playing cards.
• The printing press played an important role in the spread of ideas and movements during the Ottoman period. For example, the printing press was used to disseminate the ideas of the Tanzimat movement, which sought to modernize Ottoman society and government. The printing press was also used to promote nationalist movements, such as the Young Turks, who sought to overthrow the Ottoman government and establish a modern, secular state.
In summary, the use of printing presses in Istanbul during the Ottoman period was a significant development that transformed the way that books and manuscripts were produced and distributed. The printing press helped to disseminate knowledge and information more widely, fostered a vibrant literary culture in the city, and played an important role in the spread of ideas and movements.
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