A large Iznik polychrome pottery dish, Turkey, circa 1575

of deep rounded form with a bracketed rim, decorated in underglaze cobalt blue, turquoise, sage green and relief red, outlined in black with sprays of rose and hyacinth emanating from a leafy tuft, the rim with breaking wave motif, the reverse with alternating rosette and paired tulips

minor glaze chips to rim, drill hole to foot, discolouration of glaze and relief red from firing, 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 dish displays the characteristics of the first period of Iznik vessels produced with underglaze red. In several ways, it represents a transitional phase in which the decorators of Iznik drew on established practices whilst learning how to use the red to greatest effect (Atasoy and Raby 1989, p.230). The flowers, notably the long-stemmed roses, sway in a style that is continued from the so-called 'Damascus' dishes, a style that was in keeping with that favoured in illumination by the then court artist Kara Memi.  The grassy tuft from which an array of Ottoman flowers emerge was also his invention (ibid., p.222).