"Zillij" - Moroccan tiles

Figure 1.15 - Tatiana Chis, E., (2017) Medersa Ben Youssef. Detail of Zillij at the bottom of Image

Zillij, pictured in figure 1.15, is a decorative tile that is made up of multiple small geometric shaped tiles that are arranged together, like a puzzle, to create one tile, or surface that displays a colourful and elaborate geometric pattern. There is a lot of thought, planning and labour that goes into creating this kind of tile work, which may not be evident until one takes a close look at how it is made (Aissaoui, A. 2015).

The geometric nature of Zillij decorations are a perfect example of how geometry is used in Islamic art, and a great example of where it can be found in abundance is in architecture. This art is done as a form of spiritual mediation and to represent the praising of Allah. It is also understood to be used as apposed to figurative art that depicts living beings. The depiction of living beings in any form is forbidden in Islam because of it's link to idol worship (Aniconism).

Figure 1.16 - Alhambra of Granada. (2019) Zillij tiles on outside wall.

The hand made aspect of Zillij starts from the very first step which is the mixing of the clay and continues right till the tile is complete. Minimal tools are used in the process, and even where they are used, it is hand operated. The finished piece, as well-planned and close to perfection as it may be, still shows evidence of imperfections, all because of the hands that constructed the piece. This is what adds value to the art (Aissaoui, A. 2015).

A part of creating art by hand, that always gets my attention, is the imperfections. When I say imperfections I mean when elements which are not meant to be, but are, uneven, asymmetrical or untidy. But those are generally qualities that prove that something is hand made, and to me is more valuable than perfect symmetry. In a way, I find it beautiful because as much as people try to be perfectionists, the fact that we are in fact human and imperfect will inevitably prevail (see fallen tiles- figure 1.16).