Two turks

Category

Library Item

Item no

13612

Title

Two turks

Description

A portrait of two Turkish men who were living in Edinburgh. The man on the left is older and bigger than his companion and has a long curly beard. Both men wear round hats with tassels at the top. The smaller man has a moustache and is holding up his hand to point at something.

Artist / maker

Kay, John

Date

1784

Size

5.5 x 9 cm

Type

Etching

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

The accompanying text in the volume begins as follows:
"Of these two disciples of Mahomet very little is known. They came to Edinburgh in 1784, and bought with them recommendations from gentlemen of rank in different parts of the world. The old man with the long beard was reputed to be the father of the younger person. He was known by the name of Mahomet, and the son by that of Abraham. They were shoe or slipper makers by profession; had been great travellers, and at one period, it is said, had aided in some way or other the interests of Great Britain.
In consequence of their letters of recommendation, they received very great attention from the inhabitants of Edinburgh, and, being freemasons, were admitted as bretheren into all the different lodges of the city. They were considered to have a very competant knowledge of masonry. To assist them on their way to their native country, they were supplied with money from the funds of most of the lodges. They received funds from several gentlemen, and a present of ten guineas from the Grand Lodge of Scotland."

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Related subjects

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Hats

Clothing and dress > Garments > Coats

People > Adults > Men

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh