A Mamluk pottery jar, Damascus, Syria, 14th century

of typical baluster form with high sloping shoulder, tapering cylindrical neck and thickened rim, on a short foot, decorated under the glaze in turquoise-green and black with vertical panels enclosing small dotted florets between turquoise bands, the neck with a band of scrolling foliage in black

body intact, some repair to the rim, the glaze with distinctive open craquelure and some relatively minor blemishes and iridescence, 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."

Ovoid jars of this type were a specialised product of Syria in the Mamluk period and are believed to have been used for storing and transporting grain, fruits or oils, some for medicinal and pharmaceutical purposes. For a detailed discussion of this group of pottery wares, see Gibbs 1998-9.