Ottoman Iznik siliceous-paste ceramic tile with tulips, c. 1560-1580
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1560-1580
This Iznik tile originates from the Ottoman Empire, produced in Turkey between circa 1560 and 1580. It is constructed from siliceous-paste ceramic and finished with a transparent lead glaze.
The surface features a decorative polychrome composition on a white slip background, executed in cobalt blue, turquoise, and bright red. The motif showcases an abundant floral bouquet composed of tapering tulips, which are distinguished by reddish-brown petals speckled with white. These are arranged in alternation with jagged carnations, small flowers featuring red hearts, and a stylized pomegranate flower. The design is further enriched by slender curved stems and turquoise lanceolate leaves that fill the composition.
The tile measures approximately 19 by 20 centimeters and is presented in a wooden frame. It exemplifies the characteristic Iznik ceramic style of the period, noted for its vibrant palette and intricate, botanical-inspired ornamentation.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Glaze
- Transparent lead glaze
- Material
- Siliceous-paste ceramic
- Mounting
- Wooden frame
- Dimensions
- 19 x 20 cm (7.5 x 7.9 in.)
Design
- Colors
- Cobalt blue, turquoise, bright red, reddish-brown, white
- Motifs
- Tulips, jagged carnations, small flowers with red hearts, pomegranate flower, slender stems, lanceolate leaves
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.