When Mareva Mitsotaki met Emine Erdogan in New York

Mareva Mitsotaki was a guest of Emine Erdogan at the event “Bridal Treasures: A Journey through Ottoman and Anatolian Dowries” at the “House of Turkey” in New York. As Daily Sabbah writes, Emine Erdogan introduced and welcomed other First Ladies at the event “Bridal Treasures: A Journey Through the Dowries of Turkey and Anatolia” at the Turkey House in New York.

The event was attended by the First Ladies of Nigeria, Kosovo, Mauritius, Fiji, Guatemala, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania and Greece.

The presentation of the Turkish dowry

In her remarks, Emine Erdoğan emphasized the symbolic and cultural value of dowry items that are made with devotion by Turkales, while Ottoman and Eastern dowries, consisting of intricate, handmade works, were presented.

“Dowry items are not only meant to meet daily needs but also serve as special letters that express women’s feelings, desires and dreams through symbols,” he said.

Erdoğan explained that the dowry tradition goes beyond simply preparing for the bride’s new home. It is a joint effort involving family and friends, symbolizing social unity and solidarity. Every stage, from the creation of the dowry items to the delivery of the bridal chest, reflects the deep-rooted cultural memory of Anatolia.

He also emphasized how traditional crafts are like living documents from which a culture can be read line by line. “Anatolia, whose cultural basin stretches from Asia to Africa, has a rich history. Over the centuries, the people of the region have skilfully inscribed every aspect of life on objects, beautifying their surroundings with artistic touches.”

After her speech, a fashion show showcased traditional wedding dresses from a bygone era.