Deli Mustapha, The Bashi Bozouk

Description

The term "Bashibozuk" refers to irregular Ottoman military forces that were not part of the regular army and were mostly volunteers, local or semi-official. Their name was also used metaphorically to mean "irregular, undisciplined". They were usually composed of individuals of Albanian, Kurdish, Circassian, Bulgarian, Arab or Anatolian origin. The bashibozuk did not receive a salary and fought for booty and plunder; this often made them a force known for being undisciplined and ruthless. However, they were especially effective in areas such as border warfare, ambush-warfare methods, and light cavalry movements, especially along the border. They were used in the Balkans, Eastern Anatolia and the Caucasus, as well as in Crimea at various points. During the Crimean War, they mostly took part in intelligence, raids, surveillance and sabotage missions in sparsely populated areas. The nickname “Deli” was used in the Ottoman army for soldiers in irregular cavalry units, known for their courage and fearlessness. The “Deli” units of the classical Ottoman army served on the border and were famous for their sudden raids and cavalry charges. The figure of Deli Mustafa in the engraving wears a very ornate and detailed Ottoman outfit, with a vest, sash, shalwar and embroidered clothes. He carries several weapons attached to his belt: a pistol, a dagger, a scimitar and probably a powder keg. The curved sword (yatağan) in his hand and the fact that he is standing over an opponent on the battlefield emphasize his brave (even savage) nature. His facial expression is determined and threatening, his gaze is directed into the distance and reflects the state of war. The fact that the figure is standing over the body of his enemy makes him seem both a victorious warrior and a romantic hero.