Decorated ceramic tile. [Ottoman Empire, ca. 17th century].
Heavy wall tile, painted and glazed, in white, blue and turquoise. Decorated with a symmetrical floral-geometric pattern: each unit formed of a quatrefoil frame interlacing with adjacent frames, enclosing a central round rosette from which emerge four blue petals creating a floral cross design.
Executed in the style characteristic of Iznik ceramics, Turkey. Tiles of this type were employed to adorn the walls of mosques and public buildings throughout the Ottoman Empire. The Dome of the Rock and its adjoining structures were likewise decorated with tiles of similar patterns. During the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent (1520-1566), the Dome of the Rock underwent major restoration, during which many of its tiles were replaced; in subsequent centuries, additional extensive renovations were carried out, replacing tiles, reinforcing the structure, and covering the Dome with gilt plates.
Set in a frame. Pencil inscription with Arabic numerals on verso of the wooden frame.
22X22 cm. Frame: 34.5X34.5 cm. With suspension ring. Good condition. Wear, minor breaks and small losses.
