An Iznik Polychrome Tile, Turkey, circa 1580

of rectangular form, decorated in underglaze cobalt blue and green against a relief red background, between a light blue border, with a design of interlacing palmette scrolls

In fair condition, with restoration and overpainting to original firing flaws principally to pitting across surface, small crack along one angle, some abrasion along sides, 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."

Tiles of this type would have formed part of a highly colourful border and were used in this manner in the rooms of Murad III, datable to 1578, in the Topkapi Palace (Denny 2004, p.109). Another tile of this group is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York 2011, p.309, no.218B).  As Walter Denny notes, tiles of this type are widely dispersed and are now found in many museum collections around the world (ibid., p.309, and fn.1).