Introduction to the World of Mosaics

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What is a mosaic?

A mosaic pattern is a picture or recurring pattern made up of individual pieces. They tend to make use of small but visible spaces between each piece, creating a semi-broken image.

What are they made from?

Traditionally made from bits of glass, stones and shells, mosaics can now be made from any material as long as the overall aesthetics matches the traditional style.

They are often seen as breathtaking floors in villas although mosaics can also be seen as focal features on walls.

History of the mosaic

The earliest mosaics are dated around 3,000 BC and were found in the ancient land of Mesopotamia, located in the region of modern day Iraq, Kuwait and Syria. Typically, early examples of mosaic often depicted religious imagery or were used to decorate the walls and ceilings of buildings of worship.

Greek and Roman

There is evidence of bronze pebble mosaics from around 400 years BC, some of which have been discovered in Albania as late as the year 1916. Often depicting mythological tales, wealth and hunting scenes, they were typically the centre piece of a large design with bold elaborate framing.

ChristianChristian basilicas from around 400AD were known to be adorned with wall and ceiling mosaics. Many have unfortunately crumbled and deteriorated over the years, however there are still 4th century mosaics of Santa Constanza and Santa Pudenziana which remain intact.

JewishSynagogues from around 600AD have been found decorated with floor mosaics, with one such synagogue near Galilee displaying an interesting cross between Jewish and Pagan beliefs.

Middle Eastern and Western AsianEvidence of mosaics in this region have been found dating as early as 300AD. Older mosaics often depict religious events, dancers or musicians, whereas more contemporary Muslim mosaics follow complex and intricate patterns known as Girih.

What can you do with mosaics?

Have a look at the range of tiles available to you and contemplate how you can funk up your home:

Modern Mosaics Big and bold mosaics tend to be the contemporary mosaic of choice. Typically these patterns are strong and stylish, bringing an ancient art form into the modern era.

Mono-Colour Mosaics

Tiles of the same colour separated by the classic mosaic broken style can create a fantastic focal feature for any bathroom or kitchen.

Even Patterns These patterns can create a satisfying finish to any tiles of any design, helping to frame a block painted wall or brighten up an otherwise boring set of tiles.

Uneven PatternsWhere the even pattern helps to satisfyingly frame a wall or set of tiles, the uneven pattern can add an abstract edge. Colour can be interspersed with earthier or plain tiles as well as incorporating more jagged edges or unevenly shaped and spaced components

Which tile is best for you?

The overall look of your chosen mosaic will depend greatly on what type of tile you decide to opt for:

Natural Tiles

The soft, neutral tones of these natural tiles can be used to complement the down-to-earth home. Beiges, browns, whites and creams can be used to allude towards different temperatures and a range of richness with a wholesome feel that other tiles may struggle to provide.

Bold Tiles Perfect for the contemporary feel to complement the more modern decor. They can be loud, they can be confident, but these exciting tiles will brighten up even the most dull of rooms.

Glass Tiles

Bringing something of a dainty and subtle aesthetic, glass tiles can stir up interest in any room. Anything from cool matt tiles to glimmering gem stones can be incorporated to brighten and uplift your wall feature and pull focus.

Where to put your mosaic...

Mosaics look great anywhere, but that’s the cop out answer, right?

Bathrooms and kitchens seem to experience the most benefit from these cool features. As well as their potential for being water-proofed, one of the reasons for this may be down to the fact that they complement tiles perfectly as a border.

Mosaics can also add a contrast to the already existing tile design or wall colour, providing a perfect border to make your feature pop.

Bathrooms and Kitchens

Everywhere else!

Be abstract, be art decor, be bold, be subtle, be you!

Reflect Your Personality!Add a different dimension to your wall or floor

design with a carefully chosen mosaic.

Have a peek through our mosaics and add some pizzazz to your pad!

This mosaic master class has been brought to you by:

www.tilemart.co.uk