19c PAINTING OIL on CANVAS framed BASHI-BAZOUK antique OTTOMAN TURKISH INTEREST

A BASHI-BAZOUK

Oil painting on canvas, framed.

Not signed, c. late 19th century

After Charles Bargue (French, Paris 1825/26–1883 Paris)

The figure depicted here is a mercenary of the Ottoman Empire.

Frame 21.5 by 25.5"

Art 16 by 20"

Very good condition, minor damage to the lower edge of the frame


============================================
The Turkish term for him is bashi-bazouk, which translates as “headless.”
These men fought for plunder, an association that gave Bargue license to employ his virtuosic painting technique to paint finery such as the silk garments and narghile, or water pipe.

================================================