A Large and Rare Iznik Cintamani Tile, Turkey, Circa 1560

of rectangular form, decorated with underglaze cobalt blue, turquoise and relief red and outlined in black with a design of cintamani intersected by cloudbands

break to top and bottom left corners with associated repair and re-painting visible in catalogue illustration, minor scratches and nibbles to glaze surface, 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."

Tiles bearing cintamani (from Sanskrit "precious jewel") motifs were used to decorate the library of Sultan Ahmed I in the Topkapi Saray. The high quality of the present example and the profligate used of cobalt suggests a prestigious commission. A similar tile, with the addition of red edging, was recorded in a private collection in Los Angeles and another was in the London market (see HALI 64, p.111 and p.146). A further example sold in these rooms, The Turkish Sale, 17 October 1997, lot 49.