An Ottoman tortoiseshell and mother-of-pearl mirror, Turkey, 17th-18th century

of rectangular form with an arched cresting, inlaid all-over front and back with mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell, the back with chequerboard design, the front with floral scrolls in the crown repeated in the border, mirrorplate with bevelled edges

Small losses and some replacement pieces, overall fair to good condition, 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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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."

The workmanship with juxtaposed triangular pieces of mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell is typical of the seventeenth century. It is not by chance that the front and back are both richly decorated. This profuse embellishment stems from the belief of the Ottoman aristocracy of the day that mirrors were for dayt.mes use only; and so after sunset the mirror would be placed face-down revealing the richly decorated reverse. Another important aspect of this mirror is the combination of two different types of decoration in the front and back. A similar mirror was sold in these rooms, 27 April 2005, lot 206.