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Turkish Dervishes - from an original drawing by James Robertson, of Constantinople, 1854. Creator: Unknown
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Turkish Dervishes - from an original drawing by James Robertson, of Constantinople, 1854. Creator: Unknown
Turkish Dervishes - from an original drawing by James Robertson, of Constantinople, 1854. Among the varied population of Constantinople, not the least picturesque are the Dervishes, whose dancing and howling performances are stock subjects in most books of travels to the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Their full trousers and huge mantles, and Eastern head-dress, make up a very effective costume...Contrary to the custom of all the other Moslemah...the dervishes permit Europeans to penetrate to the very heart of their tekkes, on the sole condition of leaving their boots or shoes at the entrance, and entering in bare feet or with slippers. They chant their litanies, and perform their evolutions without seeming in the least disturbed by the presence of Christians, whose attendance as spectators, is said, on the contrary, to be regarded by them as rather flattering than otherwise...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the enigmatic presence of Turkish Dervishes in 19th century Constantinople, as depicted in an original drawing by James Robertson. The intriguing figure of the Dervish has long fascinated travelers to the Ottoman Empire, with their distinctive attire and mystical practices making for captivating subject matter in many accounts of the region. The Dervishes in this scene are shown in their full regalia, with voluminous trousers and oversized mantles, topped by the iconic Eastern headdress. Their tranquil expressions and focused gaze convey a sense of deep spirituality, in stark contrast to the lively and frenzied performances they are known for. Despite their reputation for otherworldly practices, the Dervishes welcomed the presence of Europeans in their tekkes, or monasteries, under the condition that they remove their shoes or wore slippers. This unique arrangement allowed for a rare glimpse into the heart of their sacred spaces, where they chanted litanies and executed their evolutions, seemingly unfazed by the presence of outsiders. The European spectators, in turn, were said to view the Dervishes' performances as a mark of honor, rather than a source of disrespect. This intriguing interaction between the Eastern and Western worlds is beautifully captured in this timeless drawing, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural exchange that characterized Constantinople during the 19th century.
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