A Faenza berettino dish probably workshop of Piero Bergantini, circa 1525-35

painted in the manner of the 'green man' painter with a central medallion of the penitent St. Jerome in the desert, beating his breast with a stone before a crucifix at the foot of which lies a skull, within a broad border of dolphin and scroll grottesche on a deep blue ground, the reverse with a sunburst border in blue and ochre, the centre with a large single stroke in blue

Overall in very good condition with some typical chips around the rim
"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."

Though formal Renaissance ornament of this type is commonly found on Faenza maiolica at this period, the elegant pattern used on this example is one of the rarer designs; a very closely similar example is seen on a dish in the British Museum dated 1524; see Timothy Wilson, Ceramic Art of the Italian Renaissance, no.112, pp.78-79