A LARGE SAFAVID BLUE AND WHITE DISH, PERSIA, 17TH CENTURY

of shallow form on low wide foot, decorated in shades of underglaze cobalt blue with a central motif depicting various floral and foliate forms surmounted by a further large band of scrolling floral patterns, the lip with a thin decorative band, the back with undulating foliate stems and flowerheads, the base with three pseudo-Chinese reign marks

minor abrasion to foot ring, chip to rim, hairline crack running from rim towards well at 7 o clock and at 2 o clock from rim to edge of cavetto, areas of glaze cracquelure and firing irregularities, 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 design is exemplary of the convergence of Chinese and Persian motifs, so typical of Safavid blue and white pottery. For related examples in the Victoria and Albert Museum, see Crowe 2002, nos.148-155 pp.117-119.