A Rare Iznik Polychrome pottery Tile, Turkey, circa 1575

of square form, decorated in underglaze cobalt blue and relief red with a design of cloud-band motifs within an architectural finial form set against a white background, two old collection labels to reverse: 'No. 977, coll. Charles J. Kelekian', 'No. 161, 1K'

Ex-collection Charles J. Kelekian, Paris

In good condition, with two hooks and string for hanging to reverse, some minor chips to external edges, one with associated restoration, few hairline cracks to surface, some pitting to relief-red decoration, 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."

This tile is exceptional for its stark, monumental design. The shape of the central design, which is pyramidal at the base leading up to a bulbous neck and tulip-shaped top, is evocative of the skyline of the Ottoman city, particularly Istanbul. Similar shapes in metal also appear, such as a gilt-copper (tombak) finial sold in these rooms on 24 April 2012, lot 101 (fig.1), the form of which would have been used to crown many of the architectural glories of the Ottoman Empire.

Also noteworthy are the elongated cloud-bands, or s-cloud motifs that decorate the interior of the design on this tile. Initially influenced by Chinese models that became available through the acquisition of porcelain and other goods, particularly from the Yuan and early Ming periods, these were re-interpreted by Iznik potters and took on new decorative functions.

The cloud-band motifs on the present tile, which are painted in a raised red bole with a white border against a cobalt blue ground, are the result of a complex process requiring multiple firings, and exemplifying the mature style of Iznik pottery of the third quarter of the sixteenth century.