Tradition
Iznik
Turkey · 15th–17th century
Ottoman splendor. Cobalt, turquoise, and sealing-wax red.
In a small town near Istanbul, potters created some of the most stunning ceramics the world has ever seen—then lost the secret forever.
Iznik ware represents the peak of Ottoman ceramic art. Produced in the town of Iznik from the late 15th century, these tiles and vessels achieved colors that European potters couldn't match for centuries. The famous 'Armenian bole' red—a thick, raised tomato-red that stands proud of the surface—remains difficult to replicate even today. Iznik potters painted tulips, carnations, hyacinths, and geometric arabesques on a crisp white ground. By the 17th century, the tradition had declined, and the exact recipes were lost.
What might be worth pursuing even if you can't fully achieve it?
Techniques
- Underglaze painting
- Quartz frit body
- Lead glaze
- Raised slip