On a recent trip to Turkey thanks to our exceptional tour guide, Gamze Arteman, I came across Iznik Turkish ceramics which are considered among the finest works of art from the Ottoman Empire. The art form was established and patronized by the sultans.. As any great art works or art form, they withstand the judgment of time, able to compete among the finest contemporary works in their genre.
The ceramics are known for their technical quality, beauty and exquisite designs inspired by nature. A highly labor intensive work, they involve a four step process made from quartz, and colored with precious stones which ensure they last forever. It can take an artisan 60 to 90 days to make a single tile.
Besides tiles, Iznik ceramics are fashioned into vessels that can be utilitarian such as pitchers, vases, bowls and platters, or purely decorative objects. Today the traditional patterns and forms are reproduced, but, new artisans are giving their personal interpretations to age old patterns with more varied images and coloration.
A top place to see some of the finest works being produced is Iznik Classics in the historic Sultanahamet area. The four story shop has one floor that’s a virtual museum of the works of Adnan Hoca, one of the most famous of Iznik artisans.
There is no online shop but if interested, you can write to them inquiring about availability of specific pieces on the website and prices. Then, sales can be made with a credit card or bank transfer and they ship. They shipped my piece and it was expertly packed and arrived on time.
Main Gallery: Utangac Sokak No: 13-17 Sultanahmet-Istanbul-Turkey 34122
Telephone : + 90 (212) 516 88 74 & + 90 (212) 516 88 73 Fax: + 90 (212) 517 04 72; email, iznikclassics@hotmail.com
Kapalicarsi (Grand Bazaar) Store: Ic Bedesten Serifaga Sok No: 188 (Cevahir Old Bazaar) Istanbul-Turkey Tel: +90 (212) 520 25 68; iznikclassics@hotmail.com
4 Responses
Hi Karen,
This is indeed an amazing store, above the usual vendors of Turkish tiles found in Istanbul and elsewhere. For a little while a year or two ago there was a Turkish pop-up on Lincoln Road selling tiles, textiles, and other goods.
Too bad I missed the popup.Speaking about leather, I was very impressed by the quality and workmanship of Turkish leather fashion and the prices. Mr. W bought a reversible leather and suede jacket that looked like Ermengildo Zegna at a fraction of the price.
Is the last yours?
The first one, check out the caption. I love it.