Tuǧras

Elaborate ornamental calligraphic imperial monograms of the Ottoman sultans (reigned 1281-1924), formed of the name, titles, and formula for "ever victorious." They were used as authentication on documents, because the Ottoman sultans did not sign their decrees. The tuǧras were drawn by specially designated high officials with the rank of pasha, who checked the copy for accuracy. In form, the tuǧra is distinguished by three high verticals and one large elliptical curve extending to the left and enclosing a smaller, similar curve.