Home > Arts > Artists > R > Ilya Repin
Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mehmed IV
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mehmed IV
Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mehmed IV of the Ottoman Empire, also known as Cossacks of Saporog Are Drafting a Manifesto, oil on canvas (1891) by Ilya Repin. The Cossacks writing a letter to Mehmed IV in 1676. The Cossacks defeated the Ottoman Turkish forces in battle in 1676, but the Sultan wanted them to submit to Turkish rule, and (as the legend goes) the Cossacks wrote an insulting letter in reply. Date: 1676
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11576405
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
1676 Amusement Contempt Cossack Cossacks Ilya Insult Insulting Laughter Mehmed Repin Reply Snub Sultan Ultimatum Victor Victors Victory Abusive Ottoman Replying
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> R
> Ilya Repin
> Europe
> Russia
> Related Images
> Historic
> Battles
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This oil on canvas painting, "Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mehmed IV" (1891), by renowned Russian artist Ilya Repin, immortalizes a legendary moment in history when the victorious Cossacks of Saporog responded to an ultimatum from the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed IV. In the painting, a group of Cossacks, dressed in traditional garb, are depicted sitting around a table, quill pens in hand, as they draft a letter in response to the Sultan's demand for their submission. The scene is filled with amusement, laughter, and contempt as the Cossacks mockingly write their reply. The victors, emboldened by their victory on the battlefield, boldly snub the Sultan's demand with an abusive and insulting letter. The year was 1676, and the Cossacks, a semi-autonomous group of warriors living in the stepes along the Dnieper River, had recently defeated the Ottoman Turkish forces. Despite their military triumph, the Sultan still expected them to submit to Turkish rule. However, the Cossacks, known for their fierce independence and rebellious spirit, had no intention of doing so. The painting captures the spirit of the Cossacks' defiance and their unwillingness to bow to authority. The contemptuous tone of their letter, which included insults against the Sultan and his empire, was a slap in the face to the Ottoman Empire's power and prestige. The painting is a testament to the Cossacks' unyielding spirit and their refusal to be subjugated, making it an iconic symbol of Russian history and the indomitable spirit of the Cossack people.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
