Ceramics · Fes

Zellige Tiles

Hand-cut geometric mosaic tiles in vivid colors, assembled into intricate patterns. The defining decorative art of Moroccan architecture.

History & Cultural Context

Zellige originated in 10th-century Fes, inspired by Roman and Byzantine mosaics but transformed into a uniquely Moroccan art. Each tile is hand-cut from larger glazed squares using a sharp chisel. Master craftsmen (maallems) memorize hundreds of patterns. The Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas in Fes contain some of the finest zellige work in the world.

Materials

Fired clayLocal clay formed into square tiles
Enamel glazeTraditional enamel glazes in blues, greens, whites, yellows, and blacks

Production Techniques

Hand-chiseling (taqshir)Traditional
Each tile is individually cut into shape using a sharp chisel struck with a hammer
Reverse assemblyTraditional
Cut pieces are placed face-down in the desired pattern, then backed with plaster

Production Notes

Clay tiles are glazed in solid colors and fired. A maallem then hand-chisels each tile into geometric shapes. Pieces are assembled face-down on a flat surface and backed with plaster.

Quality Indicators

Authenticity

Slight size variation between individual tilesChisel marks on tile edges

Red Flags

Printed or transfer patterns on flat tiles

Price Ranges

Budget50 – 200 MAD(~$5 – $20)

Small decorative panels (20x20cm), simple patterns, 4–5 colors

Mid-range200 – 800 MAD(~$20 – $80)

Medium panels, complex star patterns, per-square-meter pricing

Premium800 – 2500 MAD(~$80 – $250)

Large panels, fountain surrounds, intricate multi-color work

Luxury2500 – 8000 MAD(~$250 – $800)

Custom architectural installations, master maallem work