Firman Sent By The Sultan To The Family Of The Late Lieutenant Meynell

Description

This decree, sent by the Ottoman Sultan Sultan Abdulmecid to the family of Lieutenant Meynell, a British officer who lost his life during the Crimean War, is a striking example of the diplomatic courtesy of the period and the symbolic importance of the Ottoman-British alliance. This official document, which begins with a tughra and a basmalah, conveys the Sultan's deep sorrow and condolences to Meynell's family for his courage, sacrifice and his loyal service with the allied Ottoman army. The decree also underlines the respect felt for the martyrdom of the British soldier and the friendship between the two states. Such decrees not only serve the purpose of condolence, but also reflect the refinement and human dimension of the modern diplomatic relations developed by the Ottomans towards their Western allies. Published in the British press in the form of an engraving, this document also served as a means of strengthening the image of the Ottomans as a "civilized and compassionate ally."