Tile with Grape Cluster
Ottoman dynasty (1299–1923), 16th/17th century
Medium
Fritware with polychrome painting under transparent glaze
Dimensions
26.2 × 25.7 × 2.2 cm (10 5/16 × 10 1/8 × 7/8 in.)
Classification
earthenware
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
86358
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This tile featuring a central grape motif amid floral and vegetal sprays belongs to group of ceramics known as Damascus or Syrian ware, which are closely related to Iznik ceramics. These wares were produced in Damascus in the mid-16th century after the Ottoman sultan, Suleyman the Magnificent, sent Iznik potters to repair and restore tilework at the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. After refurbishing the tilework, these artisans settled in Damascus, where they continued to produce tiles and vessel...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...