AN IZNIK POLYCHROME POTTERY DISH WITH ROSETTES AND SAZ LEAVES, TURKEY, CIRCA 1570 |

fritware, underglaze-painted in cobalt blue, turquoise green and bole red with fine green-black outlines with a design of two long serrated twisting saz leaves enclosing a symmetrical design of rosettes and hyacinths with trefoil clasp, serrated rim,underside with paired tulips and flowerhead motifs, old collection labels 'Jean Lagonico 2', 'Collection A. [Imbert]', '10', 'Sotheby's Monaco 7 December 1991 lot 4', one drill to the foot and one drill to the rim

Sotheby’s Monaco, La collection Lagonico, 7 December 1991, lot 4. 
Ex-collection Jean Lagonicos.
Ex-collection Stefanos Lagonikos (label now missing). 
Ex-collection A. Imbert, Rome, no.1906 9, 1919 (only remnants of label left).

In good condition, intact, very small chip to rim with hairline crack emanating from it in glaze, drill hole to rim and foot for hanging, 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 painting on this beautiful dish epitomises favoured Iznik motifs, notably the elegantly paired saz leaves, floral stems and Chinese-derived details, as well as the shape of its serrated rim and trefoil clasp, border of scrolls and breaking waves. The orange-ochre, slightly transparent quality of the red indicates that it is early in the series of Iznik polychrome wares of the mature phase (see also lot 189). John Carswell links the effect to that of "[...] a drop of blood splashing into a bathroom sink" (Carswell 1998, p.75).