3-008-995 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Circassian envoys to England, 1862. Engraving from photographs by Mayall, 'The elder of them is named Constan Okhoo Ismael [right]...He has...resisted successfully the overwhelming forces which the Russians brought against him...When he mounts his horse 20,000 mounted warriors attend upon his orders. He is now forty-one years of age, which is considered an advanced age in that country, as they are generally killed before they attain to it. Since he was fifteen years old he has maintained an incessant warfare, and is covered with the scars of wounds (sixteen in number). Yet never has this brave man listened to the fair promises or been seduced by the gifts of the Muscovites. Twice have the most alluring offers been made to him by the Czar Nicholas, and once by Alexander, a few months ago; yet in every instance he returned a haughty refusal...The other deputy, Hadji Hassan Effendi [left]...has served, from extreme youth, as mediator between the Circassians and the Turks...In spite of his youth the Circassians have employed him in the most important political services, and the National Council fixed upon him as the most fitting companion to Constan Okhoo Ismael'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.