Three metal-thread embroidered 'örtü' covers, Ottoman Empire

comprising of a lilac watered-silk cover, embroidered in gilt metal-thread and seed pearls, together with a pair of metal-thread embroidered velvet covers, one with emerald green ground, the other burgundy (Qty 3)

All in very good condition overall. Worked in various techniques with the metal thread. A matching pair of velvet and metal-thread embroidered bohça or turban covers (each 125 by 125cm; 4ft. 1in., 4ft. 1in.), one against an emerald green velvet ground (yellow silk backing), with small dark mark to velvet in one corner, the other against a burgundy velvet ground (brown silk backing), each velvet panel comprised of three joined velvet strips to form the panel. Both with crochted triangular corner attachments, of complementary colours (green or burgundy respectively), one with small tassel attached. Together with a pale violet coloured watered-silk and metal-thread and seed pearl floral cover, late 19th/early 20th century, with metal-thread fringing, with ivory coloured cotton backing, with metal thread shadow visible. Some staining to reverse. (approx. 74 by 74cm; 2ft. 5in., 2ft. 5in.)
"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."

For comprehensive discussion of luxury embroideries worked by professionals, and used for important family festivals and ceremonies including that of the Sünnet (male child’s circumcision) for which the whole bed was covered and hung with embroidered and with metal-thread covers, see Taylor, Roderick, Ottoman Embroidery,London, 1993, Chp.2, The Embroidered Textiles, pp.25-139, Ceremonies, pp.105-111, illustrating metal-thread embroideries on and around the ceremonial bed. For examples of Palace workshop embroideries with gilt metal thread and seed pearl embroidery, see Rogers, J.M., ed., Costumes, Embroideries and other Textiles, The Topkapi Saray Museum, London/Boston, 1986, Figs.115, 116