Carswell, the former Director of the Islamic Department at Sotheby's, introduces Iznik ceramics in eight chapters with approximately 100 color and b&w illustrations. This style of the Ottoman Empire is recognized today by signature cobalt blue, turquoise, olive green, magenta and red floral designs. Carswell chronologically discusses the genesis of Iznik pottery-- from its roots in Islamic geometric tile design to its influence by Chinese blue and white porcelain, its appearance at the collapse of the Empire, and the subsequent trade and reproduction of it in international and modern markets. The book includes a map of the Ottoman Empire and suggestions for further reading. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)