A Kütahya blue and white bowl, Turkey, first half 18th century

of deep round form on a short foot, decorated in underglaze cobalt blue with a floral bouquet at the centre and a foliate scroll along rim, the exterior with a dense decor consisting of stylised flowers and sprays of leaves

In overall good condition, intact, minor rubbing to rim consistent with age, 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."

The bowl can be compared with a similar blue and white Kütahya dish in the Victoria and Albert Museum (acc. no. 597-1874). Another is in the Keir Collection (Watson 1988, p.257, no.C122). The form and the decoration owes much to contemporary blue and white porcelain from China and the designs appear elsewhere in Ottoman art, such as on the silver-thread embroidered leather work and textiles of the period.