This pencil drawing of Atatürk was made by Saip Tuna, who watched him at banquet tables at balls. Saip, who is known as Ankara's only portraitist for a long time, created this pattern in the famous Karpiç Lokantası. As it is known, Karpiç Lokantası is a frequented and chatting place for the politicians and cultural leaders of Ankara. From time to time, Atatürk comes to Karpiç Restaurant with his friends and has dinner. Saip made this pattern during such a meal. He went to Atatürk's table with the drawing in his hand and presented it, and Atatürk complimented him by sitting him in front of him. Encouraged by this compliment, Saip Tuna had Atatürk sign this design. This painting was printed in 40 copies in Ulus Printing House with the technique of that time.

SAIP TUNA

(Istanbul, 1904-Ankara, 25 July 1974)

After working at Sanayi-i Nefise Mekteb-i for two years, he worked at the Hoffman and Heiman workshops in Germany, where he went by his own means, and at the Julian Academy in France. One of his works was bought to the Jeu de Paume Museum, and he returned home in 1939 with the start of the Second World War. Until her retirement, she worked as a painting teacher at İsmet Paşa Girls' Institute, which has been known as the Technical Teacher's School for Girls in recent years.

As part of his country tours, he was sent to Kırklareli in 1940 and to Maraş in 1943. He participated in state exhibitions and community center exhibitions. He became a member of Ankara Professional Painters Group in 1942. Atatürk's portraits appeared on PTT stamps.

He made his paintings in his workshop in Evkaf Apartment, where he lived alone. He opened special exhibitions, participated in group exhibitions and exhibitions of the Ankara Painters Association.

He studied in museums, admired classical painting, preferred an academic study. Although he was a 1930 generation painter, he was considered close to the Çallı generation painters. Atatürk was known for his success in portraits and compositions. He made many pencil drawing portraits of his friends. His realistic landscapes and portraits in the sense of nature document that he was among the successful artists of his time.

Source:  www.turkishpaintings.com