MOSAICS
Definition
A mosaic is a picture or pattern produced
by arranging together small pieces of
stone, tile or glass.
History
Mosaic has been used for over 4000 years.
th
4
Century BC
Greeks used structured geometric patterns as well as
scenes of people and animals.
rd
3
Century BC
Specially made tiles, called tesserae, were manufactured
to give colour and detail to work.
Tesserae means “piece”
in Greek.
nd
2
Century BC
Romans used mosaics throughout the flooring of their architecture.
History
In Turkey, glass tiles, or smalti, were used in intricate designs
mostly on wall.
History
Islamic mosaics focused on tiled mosaics in mathematical and
geometric patterns.
The Middle Ages
The middle ages saw many cathedrals with mosaic floors.
Victorian
The Victorian era saw a revival in this interest in tiled floors using
mosaic.
Art Nouveau
The Art Nouveau (inspired by natural forms) period saw artists like
Antoni Gaudi experiment with public spaces, buildings and
sculptures being covered in mosaic.
Parc Guell, Barcelona
Contemporary
The 21st century has seen a progression of all these forms and is used
throughout public and private art spaces, architecture and community
projects.
Numbellie Seat, Queen’s Park Ipswich
Connection to other Art Forms
PAINTING
Connection to other Art Forms
COLLAGE
Connection to other Art Forms
QUILTS
Mosaic Video