Property in Turkey | Iznik tiles
Iznik tiles, which are named after their place of origin, a small town in the province of Marmara, near Bursa, are traditionally made using a unique technique which combines three successive layers of quartz and a mixture of clay and glaze, which blend naturally at very high temperatures. The background is white and the colours which are used reflect those of semi-precious stones, the dark blue of lapis lazuli, turquoise, coral red and emerald green. The patterns are symbolic representing flora and fauna and other elements of the natural world, together with inscriptions of Islamic texts. The popularity of Iznik tiles was at its height during the 16th century, with the red wall tiles which decorate the Suleymaniye Mosque marking its apogee. In the 17th century there were at least 300 workshops in Iznik specialising in tile-making. During the Ottoman period these tiles were exported throughout the world via the island of Rhodes, which was part of the Empire. This industry declined along with the Ottoman Empire, and suffered greatly throughout the War of Independence, but has been revived in recent years.
When visiting your property in Turkey view the Iznik Tiles and experience Turkey’s fascinating culture.
