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The Kislar Agha - Chief Black Eunuch
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The Kislar Agha - Chief Black Eunuch
The Kislar Agha - Chief Black Eunuch. Date: 1802
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Media ID 18072098
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
1802 Agha Chief Eunuch Outfit Unusual
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This striking image captures the enigmatic figure of The Kislar Agha, the Chief Black Eunuch of the Turkish Imperial Harem in the early 19th century. The Kislar Agha held a position of immense power and influence within the Ottoman court, responsible for managing the harem and overseeing the daily lives of the Sultan's wives and concubines. The eunuch's unusual attire sets him apart from the traditional Ottoman clothing of the time. He wears a long, voluminous robe of rich, dark fabric, adorned with intricate gold embroidery and fringes. A red sash is wrapped around his waist, adding a pop of color to the otherwise monochromatic ensemble. A golden turban sits atop his head, its edges adorned with pearls and precious stones. The Kislar Agha's most distinctive feature, however, is his shaved head and beard, a mark of his castration and dedication to the service of the harem. His piercing gaze and strong posture exude an air of authority and confidence, reflecting the power and prestige of his position. The photograph, taken in 1802, offers a rare glimpse into the world of the Ottoman court and the role of the Chief Black Eunuch within it. The image is a testament to the unique blend of Eastern and Western influences that characterized the Ottoman Empire during this period, as well as the complex social dynamics of the harem system.
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