Ahmed Reşid Efendi

About Artist

Born in Istanbul as the son of Osman Efendi of Balikesir, he studied thuluth and naskh scripts under Konyali Ebûbekir Râsid Efendi during his education, obtaining his ijazah (certificate of proficiency). After completing his education, he spent some time in secretarial services. He then joined the Secretariat of the Grand Vizier, where he served for many years. Due to his mastery in calligraphy, he was admitted to the rank of hajagan (senior bureaucrats). He was subsequently appointed as the second secretary, then promoted to the first secretary in 1224 AH (1809 AD), and later became the chief of protocol. The following year, he caught the attention of Sultan Mahmud II and was appointed as the steward of the imperial stirrup (rikâb-i hümâyûn kethüdâ). However, he passed away on 23 Dhu'l-Qa'da 1225 AH (20 December 1810 AD) while in this position. He was buried next to his father, who was interred in Süleymaniye.