Color

Dish, ca. 1525–30; Ottoman; Iznik Attributed to Iznik, Turkey Underglaze-painted composite body; H. 3 in. (7.62 cm), Diam. 15 1/2 in. (39.4 cm) Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913 (14.40.727) www.metmuseum.org

Both Islamic and European medieval art is noted for using blue. This hue was very expensive to produce because it was produced using lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone. Color is believed to have a strong emotional impact on the viewer. I see this shade of blue as evoking thoughts of heaven, royalty, grandeur, serenity. Do you agree?

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