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Porcelain sculptures like this reflected emerging European perceptions of people and cultures from Africa and Asia, often reinforcing inaccurate and ultimately harmful ideas about race and power. The Turkish ruler is imagined lounging in a lavish setting, rather than depicted in an authoritative stance. Though Black Africans could be important officials in the Ottoman Empire, the figure shown here is a servant. As you view this sculpture, consider the ways art like this impacted the worldview of the wealthy Europeans who owned it.

Credit: Museum Purchase, Robert H. Tannahill Foundation Fund, Gilbert B.and Lila Silverman, and the Visiting Committee for European Sculputure and Decorative Arts...

1749
Hard-paste porcelain, vitreous enamel, gold; bronze, gold
15.4 x 14.5 x 8.9 in
2004.11
Image and text courtesy of Detroit Institute of Arts Gallery, 2022

Where you'll find this

Detroit Institute of Arts
Permanent collection