Habit of the Mufti in 1749

by Thomas Jefferys

The 1749 copper plate engraving, created by the renowned geographer Thomas Jefferys, provides a rare opportunity to observe the ecclesiastical dress of the Ottoman Empire. The illustration shows the habit of the Mufti, the chief judicial officer of the empire, responsible for interpreting Islamic laws in the nation.

The Mufti wears his traditional dress, which is distinguished by wide sleeves and long robes. Furthermore, he wears a large turban, symbolizing his great importance to the community. As the Geographer to King George III, Jefferys is well known for his accuracy. Therefore, this engraving is not only an art but also an ethnographic source of Turkish dress in the eighteenth century.