A rare Iznik blue and white hanging ornament, Turkey, circa 1560

the stonepaste body of ovoid form, painted in cobalt blue with lotus blossoms

Ader-Picard-Tajan, Paris, 27-28 May 1991, lot 78

In good condition, intact, some firing flaws on surface, hairline cracks to glaze, some abrasion around two holes on top and bottom, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Traditionally associated with mosque lamps, ovoid ornaments such as this would have hung on a suspension chain above the lamp. The design on this piece, painted in tones of blue with delicately undulating vines with chinoiserie lotus blossoms and palmettes is reminiscent of the motifs on a jar in the British Museum, inv. no. G.6., attributed to circa 1510-20. Further comparisons in the ornamentation can be drawn with examples illustrated in Atasoy and Raby 1989, nos 447-449, 461, 468 and 758.