decorated in underglaze cobalt blue, turquoise and black, a stylised heron catches a fish, mounted

Christie's, London, 5 October 2010, lot 146

Fragmentary, the borders with some abrasion and small chips, chip to glaze with associated restoration and overpainting to complete the fish, hairline cracks to glaze, 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."

This elegant tile combines Middle Eastern and Far Eastern motifs as characteristic of Mamluk pottery which was influenced by the influx of Chinese blue and white ceramics into the Middle East in the late fourteenth century; note the painterly quality of the Chinese-style crane shown in the act of catching a fish.