An Epirus embroidered valance panel, Ottoman

comprised of three joined vertical panels, worked with bold stylised tulip motifs incorporating smaller floral motifs, surrounded by dense design of foliate flowering stems, now mounted within a later glazed rectangular frame

Couleurs d'Orient, Brussels, 2010;
Turkophilia, Paris, 2011

Brussels 2010, pg.61;
Paris 2011, pg.24;

 

Colours of the catalogue photograph are not representative of the piece in reality. The true colours are madder/orange and not such a bright red. There are delicate greens and cerise motifs. More muted and sophisticated colours in reality. Appearance overall in reality is more defined and crisper and more attractive. Due to technique of embroidery there is a lovely sheen to the silk threads, worked onto a fine natural linen ground. Comprised of three joined vertical panels, the central panel with a horizontal join towards the centre. There are some areas are wear along the joins. Overall in good condition. Attractive composite panel.
"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."

For examples of similarly embroidered border from Epirus, dated 18^th century, with large distinctive ogival floral motifs against a foliate ground, see Wace, A.J.B, Mediterranean and Near Eastern Embroideries, From the Collection of Mrs F.H.Cook, London, 1935, Vol.I, Text, Nos.15-18, pp.49-50, Vol. II, Plates, XXII-XXVI.

For examples of similarly embroidered joined panels from the 18^th & 19^th century, see Polychroniadis, Helen, Greek Embroideries, Benaki Museum, Athens, 1980, pp.46-47, figs.21&22.

For comparable embroidered Epirus valance panels sold recently at auction, see Sotheby's, London, 14^th April 2010, lot 348 (two panels), Sotheby's, New York, 2^nd June 2010, lot 1 (two panels), Sotheby's, London, 5^th April 2006, lot 48 (a panel), Sotheby's, New York, 14^th December 2006, lot 127 (a pair).