Ottoman Iznik print mask

This double-layered silk mask is printed with an endless vine scroll of turquoise, blue, and red tulips, carnations, hyacinths and other flowers. The design is inspired by high status painted and glazed ceramic objects and architectural tiles from the Ottoman period made in Iznik, a town southeast of Istanbul, Turkey. Between ca. 1480–1700, demand for these court-sponsored luxury wares spread like wildfire across the Ottoman Empire and Europe. Floral patterns in this style became the most recognizable design aesthetic of the Ottoman dynasty.

Sonia Aslam and Sehrish Shams for Bebek Jewels, Turkey/USA

2020

Designed in Maryland, USA

Made in Istanbul, Turkey

Printed silk with polyester lining

Royal Ontario Museum
2021.74.2, Gift in memory of PK Ladhani