[Whirling Dervishes]
Albumen Photograph
Striking original 19th century albumen photograph of the Turkish Mevlevi Order of Sufi dervishes, known for their extreme poverty and austerity and for the whirling dance that is proverbially associated with Dervishes. Part of a formal ceremony known as the Sema, it is only one of the many Sufi ceremonies performed to try to reach religious ecstasy. A compelling composition of seven whirling dervishes, most likely from Turkey or Iran, wearing white outfits and with their arms raised, surrounded by black-robed figures standing and seated on decorative rugs, while an ensembple of musicians accompanies. A few minor stains and edge wear, glue-stained mounting strips on verso, else fine. 10.5 x 7.5 inches (26.7 x 19 cm). (5043)Unsigned Photo Dance