An exceptionally rare Laqabi polychrome ceramic dish, Syria, circa 1200-1250

of deep rounded form with everted rim, moulded and painted in underglaze cobalt blue, turquoise and manganese purple, with a central hatched roundel framing a monumental strutting bird with scroll feathers and gullet, cobalt blue hatched panels to rim

breaks throughout with associated repair, areas of cracquelure to glaze, 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."

This labour intensive technique involved the design being carved into the body with different coloured glazes then placed alongside each other, segregated by the grooved or raised outlines.  Dishes and bowls with the design in the well were more successful than the upright jars, where the glazes tended to run downwards. (For a further discussion of this technique and related examples please see Lane 1947, p.35).