Description
48. An Iznik pottery jug
Turkey, late 16th Century
of piriform on a short foot with flaring neck and simple handle, the white ground decorated in raised-red, green, cobalt blue and black outline with tulips and other flowers
25 cm. high
Provenance
Acquired by Baron Leon Rolin 'The Lion of Cairo' (1871-1950) or his daughter, Jacqueline Rolin (1902-1975) and thence by descent.
Leon Rolin (1871-1950), nicknamed 'The Lion of Cairo', was the owner of contracting firm Leon Rolin & Co, one of the two largest civil contractors in Egypt. The firm was charged with construction of the Heliopolis Palace Hotel, later the presidential palace of the Mubarak administration.
The Heliopolis Palace Hotel was an ambitious project, built in the open desert between 1908-1910, and opening as Africa's most luxurious hotel on December 1st 1910. During the construction and inspired by their surroundings, his wife, Madeleine Shaar (1876-1954) started a collection of Islamic art. His daughter Jacqueline continued to avidly collect and was present at the auction of the contents of the Royal Palace of King Farouk. She later returned to Belgium and distributed her rich collection amongst her children and their descendants.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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