Two gilt-copper (tombak) tankards, Turkey, 17th century

Each of broad baluster form on a tall splayed footring, with punched decoration of pointed ogival medallions with broad borders of floral garlands, interstitial lappets of further floral motifs, one with a line of cursive calligraphy, undeciphered, below the rim and with a domed cover with bud-form finial

Loss of gilding, minor wear and denting, both jugs formerly with handles (now missing), 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."

These jugs are from a group of tombak wares typified by the punched technique of decoration and by a shared decorative vocabulary, largely elaborate and stylised flowers. The jugs are closely related to another jug which bears a closely related inscription around its neck to that found on one of the present jugs (Allan and Raby 1982, p.35, fig.13d). This inscription and the decoration is compared to those found on contemporary embroideries (ibid., p.36). The group of tombak wares decorated in this manner is varied In form, from flasks to shields (ibid., p.35, fig.13c, and Karlsruhe 1991, p.171, no.117, respectively).