Ottoman Kutahya Calligraphic Pottery Tile Panel

Identification Number: 615
Available

Description

Ottoman Kutahya Calligraphic Pottery Tile Panel

Origin: Kutahya, Ottoman Empire, Turkey
Period: Circa 19th Century
Material: Pottery, Cobalt-Blue, Turquoise, Green, Tomato Red, Bone, Ivory, and Wood Frame

This exquisite Ottoman Kutahya calligraphic tile panel reflects the rich artistic tradition of 19th-century Ottoman ceramic craftsmanship. The panel consists of four square-shaped tiles, underglaze-painted in vibrant cobalt blue, turquoise, green, and tomato red, with bold black outlines on a pristine white ground.


Artistic Highlights:

  • Calligraphic Inscription: The tiles feature a striking Arabic Thuluth script, outlined in cobalt blue. The inscription reads:
    دخيلكم يا رسول ألله غريق بحر عصيانم
    Translation: I beg of you, Mohammed, the Messenger of Allah, to save me from the ocean of sins I have been drowning in.
  • Floral and Palmette Motifs:
    • The tile borders are adorned with alternating palmette designs.
    • Each corner features blossoming tulip heads, complemented by cobalt blue and red floral motifs surrounding the central inscription. Two palmettes confront each other within the script, adding to the elegance.
  • Frame Inlay:
    • The tiles are encased in a beautifully crafted wooden frame inlaid with bone, ivory, and wood marquetry.
    • The frame features geometric hexagonal motifs, composed of alternating triangles in brown coloured wood and ivory, echoing traditional Ottoman parquetry craftsmanship.

Historical Significance:

Kutahya, a renowned center for ceramic production during the Ottoman Empire, is celebrated for its vivid tile work and intricate designs. This panel represents not only Islamic calligraphy and artistry but also reflects the spiritual and decorative legacy of Ottoman religious art. Such pieces were often commissioned for mosques, shrines, and homes, serving as spiritual reminders and decorative masterpieces.


Why This Piece Stands Out:

  • Unique Craftsmanship: The combination of calligraphy, floral motifs, and geometric inlay makes this a rare and captivating piece.
  • Cultural and Religious Significance: The inscription and floral decorations highlight the spiritual essence of Ottoman Islamic art.
  • Collector’s Item: This tile panel is a fine example of Kutahya pottery, making it a valuable addition for collectors of Islamic ceramics and Ottoman artefacts.

For enthusiasts and collectors of Ottoman ceramics, Islamic calligraphy, and antique pottery, this Kutahya tile panel offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of 19th-century Ottoman heritage.

Registration with GOV.UK of an item containing a percentage of ivory: Submission reference: VXXNRMQ5

Dimensions

Dimensions:
Overall Width (including frame): 101.5 cm
Overall Height: 32 cm
Frame Width: 5 cm
Frame Depth: 2.6 cm

Condition

Condition:
Good Condition: Two of the four tiles show minor hairline cracks and a few small chips. To ensure stability, the back of the tile panel is reinforced with a wooden covering.

Provence

The EU Art Market

References

References:-
For related Ottoman Kutahya ceramics please see the following:

Magic Of Clay And Fire, A history Of Kutahya Pottery and Potters, BY Garo Kurkman, Istanbul, 2006, ISBN: 975-9123-14-2.
Please see the similar the floral cobalt blue decoration on the ewer illustrated on page ewers illustrated on pages 169.

(Also, please see the following reference book is written in Turkish language)
Yadigari-I Kutahya (Souvenirs from Kutahya), by senem Akalin & Hulya Bilgi, 1997, ISBN: 975-7078-01-8, Please see the similar cobalt blue decoration on the ewer illustrated on page 62.

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