An Iznik Polychrome Dish, Turkey, Circa 1560

of rounded form with a narrow rim, painted with underglaze cobalt blue and viridian green, with a central design of three bunches of grapes surrounded by scrolling tendrils and vine leaves, the cavetto with nine floral sprays, the reverse with alternating chinoiserie scrolls and rosettes, 'Joseph Soustiel' label on reverse

Cracks with associated restoration, minor abrasions 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 mid-sixteenth-century dish is based on a Ming design from the beginning of the fifteenth century, of which there are examples in the Topkapi Palace; see Krahl, R., Chinese Ceramics in the Topkapi Museum Istanbul, vol. II, London, 1986, nos. 605 and 606. The potters at Iznik may have had first-hand knowledge of the Chinese porcelains at court, but more likely, they were sent drawings or pounced studies by draughtsmen working in a kitabkhana. The fact that the grape motif is reversed compared with the Chinese model supports the theory that a transfer was used.