Not only was the geometry of tessellation patterns fascinating to the tessellating artists, but intellectuals too began to show a deep interest in the mathematical structure of these tessellating patterns found from the Middle Ages and through the 19th century. Many of these designs have regional characteristics, which make them unique to the people and culture they originated from. Modern archeologists have uncovered many beautiful examples of tessellation art created by the Sumerian civilization, where it then spread to many other ancient civilizations such as the Romans, Chinese, Greek, Egyptians, Arabs, Moors, and Persians. The use of tessellation patterns in temples and homes can be traced back to sometime in 4,000 BC in Sumeria. Tessellation pattern of a street pavement in Zakopane, Poland Dmharvey, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

This hints at the historical use of tessellation ideas that stretch far back into our history when small tiles made of glass, stone, or clay were used to create patterns on public and domestic surfaces. The word derives from the Latin word tessellātus (square small stones) and the Greek word tessera (four). The use of tessellation ideas and concepts throughout our history has resulted in the creation of beautifully decorated architecture, such as temples and mosques, as well as magnificent works of art.Īn understanding of ancient languages in history can help one better understand the tessellation definition. Also known as tiling, this process results in a mosaic pattern that can be used in a highly creative manner, despite its largely confining mathematical structure. What is Tessellation? Tessellation art is created through the process of covering a surface with a number of geometric shapes that fit together almost like a jig-saw puzzle, never overlapping and leaving no spaces between them. 3.2 Are People Still Creating Tessellation Art Today?.Escher’s Work Considered to Be Tessellation Art? 1.1 A Brief History of Tessellation Patterns.

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