Tile Museum

Islamic Tiles

Originating in the Arabian Peninsula in the 7th century, Islamic culture spread to a vast geographical area within a short period of time. Religious piety that developed to survive the harsh climate triggered the spirit of decoration, leading to the development of the universe of decorative geometric-patterned tiles adorning the walls of religious facilities as well as the residences of kings and nobility. Having the longest history, the world of Islamic culture still continues to win admiration and amazement from visitors for its techniques, craftsmanship, and perfection in decorating with tiles.

  • Star Shaped Luster Tile with a Design of an Animal
    Iran
    End of 13th century - 14th century
    205 × 210 × 14 (mm)

    Star shaped tiles combined with cross shaped tiles adorned the walls of mosques and other buildings. Luster glaze is used on the surface, giving it a metallic shine.

  • Polychrome Tile with Tulip Design on Cobalt Blue Ground
    Iznik, Turkey
    Late 16th century
    96 × 146 × 15 (mm)

    Beautiful walls of palaces built during the era of the Ottoman Empire were all adorned with polychrome tiles, characteristic of the contrasting red, blue, and white.

  • Polychrome Tile with a Design of a Banquet Scene
    Iran
    19th century
    1,390 × 925 (mm)

    Figurative depictions on tiles were initially strictly forbidden to avoid idol worship, prohibited under the teaching of Islam. However, gradually the interpretation of the restriction was relaxed, and decorative tiles painted with designs of living beings without religious context emerged.

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