Bashi-Bazouk
This arresting picture was made after Gérôme returned to Paris from a twelve-week journey to the Near East in 1868. He was at the height of his career when he dressed a model in his studio with garments and accessories he had acquired abroad. The artist’s Turkish title for this picture—which translates as "headless"—evokes the poorly paid auxiliary soldiers who fought ferociously for plunder under Ottoman leadership, although it is difficult to imagine this man charging into battle wearing such an exquisite silk tunic. Gérôme’s virtuosic treatment of textures provides a sumptuous counterpoint to the figure’s dignified bearing.
Artwork Details
- Title: Bashi-Bazouk
- Artist: Jean-Léon Gérôme (French, Vesoul 1824–1904 Paris)
- Date: 1868–69
- Medium: Oil on canvas
- Dimensions: 31 3/4 x 26 in. (80.6 x 66 cm)
- Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 2008
- Object Number: 2008.547.1
- Curatorial Department: European Paintings
Audio
6013. Bashi-Bazouk
More Artwork
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Related Content
Perspectives
Articles, audio, and video from The Met's online magazine.
Timeline of Art History
Entries from The Met's art encyclopedia.
Publications
Books, guides, and catalogues published by The Met.
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.