An Iznik Polychrome tile, Turkey, circa 1575

of square form, decorated with underglaze cobalt blue, turquoise, green and relief red, outlined in black with a large feathery saz leaf overlapping and intersected by a sprig of prunus blossom, the corners with composite lotus heads and red-ground cartouches filled with tulips and carnations

in good condition, minor rubbing and surface abrasions, colours bright and clear, 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 tile is part of a well-known group.  There are a number of similar examples to be found in public and private collections: a large panel in the Victoria and Albert Museum; two panels of eight in the Louvre; a panel of ten in the Gulbenkian Foundation, Lisbon; a panel of four in the David Collection, Copenhagen; and others in the Ashmolean Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the Cinili Kiosk in Istanbul and the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo.  Similar tiles sold through these rooms, 15 October 2003, lot 52 and 5 April 2006, lot 169.