Ceramics & Tiles

Islamic art has a high level of achievement in ceramics, pottery and tiles. These items include vases, vessels, plates – used for both functional and decorative purposes.

Tiles are used for the decoration of interior and exterior walls and domes of mosques and palaces. The distinctive Islamic tradition of glazed and brightly coloured tiles is commonly seen in mosques and mausoleums across the Islamic world. Some earlier works created designs using mixtures of tiles, each of a single colour, which were cut to create abstract geometric patterns and shapes.

In some cases, the letters of inscription may be molded in a three-dimensional relief. In other times, the clay is poured into a mold to create intricate arabesque and calligraphy patterns as seen in locations such as Alhambra in the Andalusian province of Spain.

Artisans inscribed calligraphy on tiles covering the interior of domes and columns and the Arabesque patterns provided the decorative elements of what formed these traditional and Islamic art forms.

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