Habit of the Aga of the Janesaries in 1749

by Thomas Jefferys

Transport yourself back to the 18th century with this real-life depiction of the strength of the Ottomans. This print from 1749 by Thomas Jefferys shows the official attire of the Aga of the Janissaries, the leader of the most powerful military force of the Ottoman Empire. The print is representative of the period when there was considerable European interest in Turkish customs (Turquerie).

This attire includes his tall hat and robe made from fine silk and lined with fur. It is an excellent example of the period of Turquerie and Jefferys' ability to capture the intricate details of fabric while using clear and strong lines.