Zesty Zilij

Zilij, or more commonly known as Zellige, is a lovely traditional Moroccan art form. It is a form of Islamic Art that was introduced in the 700s AD. It consists of beautiful intricate patterns grouped together that originally depicted original artworks consistent with the Islamic teachings. With the advancement in time, the framework of the patterns of Zellige has grown as well, fitting perfectly with the modern interior décor.

History of Zilij

Since Islam forbade the depictions of living things in their art, the craftsmen thought of including colours and geometrical shapes that had their own meaning and symbolism of their own religion in their designs to induce purity. Zellige soon became a symbol of power and royalty throughout in history. Colours were limited by their time and included only a handful of shades. Initially only the shades of white and brown were used. Then, the technique introduced blue, green and yellow colours in the 14^th century. Later, in the 17^th century, red was added. The colours were used to symbolize various elements of nature. However, with the sophistication in art from time to time, we now have a variety of assorted colours.

Forms and trends

The basic shape of zilij is square. The other shapes include an octagon, star, cross and cabochon. Also, a combination of different shapes are also used. The designs are molded on a thick base made of clay, later strengthened by a cement base. The patterns and shapes are so designed that they interlock into one another at the corners creating a bigger form of small designs. Craftsmen have been using geometric shapes, honeycombs, webs, steps and shoulders and checkerboards too.
Assiduous attention is required in the meticulous process of making zellige. Apart from directly introducing designs to the shapes, various different patterns are cultivated on smaller shapes which are later integrated into one single work.

Why use Zilij?

The art of zilij was implemented on the walls of palaces, tombs, fountains, patios and baths, Imitatingroyalties, the wealthy merchants in the medieval ages used zilij in their homes. The general idea of zilij was to incorporate Islamic teachings into our daily lives. This brings a sense of spiritual aspect in our homes. The very feeling of being close to the ultimate benevolent creator of the universe is what human beings crave for. This form of Islamic art has had a significant influence on the Western art.

To include this beautiful form of interior décor to your homes, the Andalusian Ornate Décor based in Bahrain provides the best available designs for zilij, designed to enhance the radiance of our homes in the most reasonable of rates. Check out the website www.ornate-decor.com/home to know more about them.