Welcome to Bosphoressence



The Bosphorus Strait is traditionally known as the point where east meets west and represents the relationship Bosphoressence has with Turkey. Bosphoressence is a family owned business whose aim is to bring the essence of the Bosphorus to the UK. We understand that it is not always possible or convenient to bring home all the lovely things you may see while holidaying in Turkey, especially with limited baggage allowances and red tape. The beauty of Bosphoressence is that you can do your shopping from the comfort of your own home knowing that it will be with you in 2-3 days and in one piece. We have sourced all of our handmade products directly from select manufacturers to keep the costs down as much as possible while ensuring that we have not compromised on quality. Over the next few months we will be adding more products as they are sourced and ask that you check back to see the updated products and categories.

It is also possible to arrive at the Bosphoressence home page by typing www.bosphoressence.com or www.fromturkey.co.uk.



Our Products



Our Ceramics Collection is from the city of Kutahya and are manufactured using traditional Turkish techniques. We have managed to source both beautiful and classic pieces from plates, bowls, cups, mugs, salt and pepper sets, mortar and pestle sets to trivets, eggcups, toothpick holders, tiles, coasters and vases. Over the next few months we will also be adding ceramics from Iznik.

Our Onyx Collection is from the cities of Bilecik, Kirsehir, Ankara, Nevsehir, Afyon and Tokat and comprises vases, mortar and pestle sets, candle holders, coasters and miniature clocks. All of these products have been expertly crafted from blocks of onyx marble stone and the products show the excellent skills and workmanship involved.

Part of our Accessories and Gifts Collection has recently been sourced from the cities of Gaziantep and Erzincan. This collection features Sedef which is the Turkish name of mother of pearl and is widely used in traditional arts as inlay. This art became very popular during the Ottoman period and our collection features jewellery boxes, mirrors, candelabras, flutes, trays, candle holders, picture frames, napkin holders, Quran holders and office stationary. We also have copper trays but the copper collection is not complete. We are currently sourcing other items to add to this collection and anticipate they will be available in the next few months.

Our Jewellery Collection is from the cities of Mardin, Ankara and Trabzon and includes pendants, brooches and earrings. The distinctive art of Telkari is showcased using silver. The word "Tel" in Turkish means "wire" and the art of using wire to make jewellery is called "Telkari". This is a very elaborate process which requires great skill, expertise and patience. The silver is first melted and then poured into a mould that yields thin rods measuring a millimetre in diameter. The rods are then transformed into wires by being drawn through a perforated steel plate. Once the wires are ready, each design is crafted by hand and the tiny circular pieces are welded together.

In addition, we will have a selection of jewellery featuring Nazar Boncuk beads later in the year.

Our Soft Furnishings Collection is from Istanbul and includes cushion covers, pillow cases, table runners and decorative bed runners bearing traditional kilim designs and encapsulates the vibrant colours associated with Turkish design.