Islamic geometric wall art in emerald and gold, an elegant piece of oriental home decor

Oriental Wall Art and Islamic Geometry: Understanding the Patterns

Quick answer: Islamic geometric patterns are built from circles, grids and repeating shapes, designed to suggest order and infinity. They are the heart of oriental wall art, and they suit modern homes especially well because they bring structure without figures or clutter.

What is Islamic geometric art?

Islamic geometric art uses circles, squares and their divisions to build stars, polygons and interlaced lines that repeat across a surface. Because the pattern can extend in every direction, it is often read as a visual expression of unity and infinity. The eight-pointed star is among the best-known motifs.

Where the patterns come from

Architecture. Domes, arches, doors and courtyards across the Islamic world carry carved, painted and inlaid geometry.
Tilework and mosaic. Glazed tiles, such as the zellige of Morocco, set pattern and colour into walls and fountains.
Calligraphy and manuscripts. Geometry often frames text, as in illuminated pages.

Using oriental wall art in a modern home

Choose one piece with presence. Geometry is already full of detail, so a single large artwork is stronger than many small ones.
Keep the room calm. Let plain walls, natural wood and soft textiles balance the pattern.
Pick a palette to match. Emerald and gold for richness, ivory and sand for calm, turquoise and cobalt for colour.
Place it where it can be seen. A hallway, study or living room wall, at eye level.

Which collection suits which style

Geometry for stars and interlaced patterns in emerald, ivory and gold. Explore Geometry.
Mosaic for tilework colour in turquoise, cobalt and gold. Explore Mosaic.
Monument for sacred architecture in soft washes. Explore Monument.

For a calmer, tonal take on Islamic design, see our guide to beige wall art.