'Stems & Leaves' A Group of Ottoman Towels and Embroideries

including napkins (yağlik), sashes (uçkur), headscarves (çevre), worked in polychrome silks and metal-threads, using a variety of stitches, predominantly worked with stems and leaves (11)

There are some stains and marks generally to some and some small losses. The embroidered and metal-thread decorated ends are in very good overall condition. Approximate measurements: In columns left, centre and right of image (top to bottom); Left hand side column- top to bottom; top left corner wheat sheaf napkin 97 by 97cm, lower left corner and across width of picture, scrolling orange floral design 100 by 102cm. Central column: top to bottom: Left of centre blue star flowers and bronw leaf stems 25 by 184cm, (top panel illustrated on-line but not in catalogue - delicate gauze panel with snake motif 50 by 228cm), then catalogue photograph top towel visible - with golden wheat sheaf motif 51 by 121cm (stained), alternating red and blue floral scroll design 54 by 98cm., floral motifs incorporating calligraphy 52 by 120cm (stained), double row design with `c' scroll leaves at edge 75 by 148cm., pink and red flowers and golden leaf towel 59 by 137cm. Right hand side column: top to bottom: (Top right panel illustrated on-line but not in catalogue 89 by 89cm). Top right panel in catalogue photograph with delicate purple flowers and ribbon bows 37 by 216cm.
"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 çevre – headscarves, similar to those in the present lot, which incorporate small motifs in each corner of the square format scarf, which have finely worked four-sided border, leaving the main field undecorated.

For comprehensive discussion of the subject of Ottoman embroideries, including napkins (yağlik), sashes (uçkur), headscarves (çevre), wrapping cloths (bohça), covers and floorspreads, and the techniques used see:-

Erber, Christian, A Wealth of Silk and Velvet, Bremen, 1993;
Krody, Sumru Belger, Flowers of Silk and Gold, Four Centuries of Ottoman Embroidery, The Textile Museum, Washington, 2000;
Rogers, J.M., ed., Embroideries and other Textiles, The Topkapi Saray Museum, London/Boston, 1986, Part II: Embroideries;
Taylor, R., Ottoman Embroidery, London, 1993.