Four Calligraphic Roundels Attributable to Mahmud Celaleddin Effendi (d.1829), Turkey, 19th Century

Arabic manuscript on paper, laid down on wooden roundels, written in Jali Thuluth script, with the names Muhammad, Ali, Abu Bakr, and Husayn, with accompanying prayers

In generally good overall condition, some rubbing and abrasions to front of roundels, some losses and creases, but caligraphy bold, 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 roundels were designed as part of models for architectural inscriptions which appear on the pendentives of mosque domes. The principle of using roundels for the decoration of domes survived the collapse of the Iznik potteries in the later seventeenth century and wooden versions form a prominent element of the decoration of eighteenth and nineteenth-century mosques in Istanbul. Similar roundels are found in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection (Rogers 1995, pp.26-31).

The extremely sharp finish and almost masculine appearance of the free-standing letters suggests they are the work of Mahmud Celaleddin Effendi whose style was much loved by Sultan Abdülmecid (r.1839-61).