The artwork titled “Sovereigns No. 5: Caricature of Sultan Abdul Aziz of the Ottoman Empire,” created by James Tissot in 1869, belongs to the Realism art movement and is part of the “Sovereigns (Caricatures)” series. This piece falls under the caricature genre and offers a satirical portrayal of Sultan Abdul Aziz of the Ottoman Empire.
The artwork depicts Sultan Abdul Aziz in an exaggerated manner, characteristic of caricature style. He is shown seated, wearing traditional garb adorned with decorations. In his lap, the Sultan holds two scantily-clad figures representing women, further emphasizing the satirical and exaggerated nature of the artwork. Above the Sultan, a large object resembling a bucket or bell is being lowered onto or lifted from his head by a hand gripping a staff, adding to the absurdity of the scene. Elements such as an ornate hookah can be observed, enhancing the depiction’s opulent and somewhat fantastical atmosphere.
