gemateerde

Gemateerde is a type of decorative container or vessel originating from the Middle East, particularly in the region that is now modern-day Turkey. The term specifically refers to a style of ceramicware that originated in the early 17th century and was popularized in the Ottoman Empire.

Gemateerde vases and other vessels were characterized by their intricate geometric patterns, often featuring-pointed arches, lobed shapes, and repeating floral motifs. These decorations were typically achieved through a combination of slip-trailing, underglaze painting, and application of metal oxides to create multiple colors.

The gemateerde style was renowned for its elegance and sophistication, making it a sought-after product for both domestic and international markets. Its popularity peaked during the reign of Sultan Murad IV, a period marked by increased trade and cultural exchange between the Ottoman Empire and European states.

While the gemateerde form of ceramicware is most famously associated with the Ottoman Empire, similar techniques and styles were also applied to other ceramics in the region, such as those from Damascus and Baghdad. Furthermore, similar motifs can be observed in other Near Eastern ceramic traditions.

Archaeologists and art historians date the gemateerde period to approximately 1630-1680, when the decorative style reached its zenith in terms of production quantity and artistry. Today, surviving examples of gemateerde ceramics are held in museums and private collections worldwide, offering insight into the succession of artistic trends in the pre-modern Islamic world.