Twelve-Point Star Tile
Timurid dynasty (1370-1507), Late 15th century
Medium
Glazed fritware tiles cut and reassembled as a mosaic
Dimensions
H.: 59.7 cm (23 1/2 in.)
Classification
ceramics
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
86467
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This twelve-pointed star is composed of glazed cut tiles that were assembled as a mosaic. Although mosaics were not uncommon at this time, other extant star tiles of this period were typically fired in one piece. The vivid color scheme of turquoise and cobalt highlight the mosaic’s intricate pattern of flowers and scrolls. A mosaic like this one might have formed a central decorative element on the pulpit of a mosque or it may have adorned the walls of a grand hall or madrasa, a religious school...
About the Artist
Islamic
Islamic art, a profound visual tradition originating in the 7th century CE, flourished across vast territories from Spain to India under Muslim rule, encompassing architecture, ceramics, manuscripts, textiles, and metalwork produced by diverse artisans rather than a single named master. Drawing from pre-Islamic Sasanian, Byzantine, and late antique influences, its early development under the Umayy...