Star-shaped Tile Ilkhanid dynasty (1256–1353), late 13th century

This star-shaped tile was made by an anonymous artist, using fritware with transparent glaze and luster-paint. This decorative object is composed of geometric and organic forms, most notably what seems to be a dragon. We can assume it was made somewhere in the Islamic world, perhaps Persia, where geometric and arabesque designs flourished and were widely employed in architecture and decoration. The use of the star shape, the turquoise glaze, and the depiction of animal forms, may have had specific meanings related to cosmological beliefs, heraldry, or dynastic power. Understanding the social context of this tile requires delving into the history of Islamic art and culture, studying the symbolism of dragons, the aesthetics of geometric patterns, and the patronage networks that supported artistic production. It is through such investigation that we can begin to appreciate the full richness and complexity of this work.