“[W]e are treated to an admirably concise but wide-ranging and, in many respects, ground-breaking overview of Ottoman art and culture. All its exhibits are drawn from the vast collection of Islamic art amassed by Nasser D. Khalili. […] Certainly, no other single collection outside Istanbul has the range of material to mount such an ambitious survey.”
Susan Moore, The Financial Times, 22 July 1995
“This elegant, dazzling and fascinating show is a must-see for those who want clarity in these troubling times. [...] This serenely gorgeous show grows in scope and drama as you contemplate the sort of extraordinary riches - both temporal and spiritual - that have vied for the human soul throughout history.”
Kevin Lynch, The Capital Times, 27 March 2002
“Empire of the Sultans, the understated and gracious exhibition at the new Brunei Gallery in London, is a challenge to the west, an unapologetic presentation of Ottoman culture in its own terms. […] It is an unmissable exhibition.”
Phil Baker, New Statesman, 26 July 1996
“A magnificent blend of art and science as well as military and cultural history is on display in the ‘Empire of the Sultans, Ottoman Art from the Khalili Collection’ exhibition [...] the show may require more than one trip to appreciate its wonders.”
