Interpretation of Kandil motif in Anatolian tombstones in contemporary ceramic forms

The subject, which is considered as Doctor of Fine Arts Report, is based on the transformation of the oil lamp (kandil) which is used as an ornamentation element on the Ahlat Tombstones, which has an important place in our art history, into a modern ceramic form with a different perspective. The tombstones are considered as historical documents that have important data in terms of culture and art history. Researches have indicated that every society living in Anatolia reflects their cultural characteristics to their tombstones. Considering tombstone subject is quite comprehensive, Ahlat, which is an important area in terms of subject, and its tombstones were selected for this study. In this context, in the first part of the report, a general overview of tombstones from Central Asia to Anatolia was given. Examination of the Turkish tombstones in terms of plastic is another subject in this chapter. In addition, the subject of Ahlat tombstones, which is the main subject of this study, is examined in detail in this section. In the second chapter, general information about the subject of kandil is given. Faith and kandil relationship, which are important for our subject, were examined in detail and the relationship of the kandil form with 'light' and 'nur' concepts in Islam was emphasized. It was also explained how the kandil form was processed on tombstones from this relationship. Moreover, the reason why and how to use the form on Ahlat tombstones are given. In the last chapter, personal applications are allocated by evaluating the use of kandil on gravestones. Keywords Ceramic, Kandil, Ahlat Tombstones.