THE ART OF ZELLIGE

Zellige is the Arabic word used to describe the glazed tiles used in the intricate designs one sees on floors, walls and panels throughout Morocco. It is believed that zellige was influenced by the Frumuseni Mosaics of the Byzantines. The art of Zellige flourished at the Hispano-Moresque period (Azulejo). It then appeared in Morocco in the 10th century using nuances of white and brown colours.
The art remained very limited in use until the Merinid dynasty who gave it more importance around the 14th century. Blue, red, green and yellow colours were introduced in the 17th century. The old enamels with the natural colours were used until the beginning of the 20th century and the colors had probably not evolved much since the period of Merinids. The cities of Fes and Meknes remain the centers of this art.

Zellige making is considered an art in itself and this art is often transmitted from generation to generation by maâlems (master craftsmen) with long training starting at childhood in order to master the exceptional skills.

The tiles are made up from clay, measuring roughly 10cm x 10cm, and are then fired in a kiln. The tiles are then painted with a colour and fired again. Now the work really starts. The 10cm square tiles are cut into the sizes and shapes required for the piece, the edges are shaped so that the tiles fit against each other tightly. Assiduous attention to detail is very important in the process of creating Zellige works. The small coloured shapes are assembled together in a geometrical structure as in a puzzle to form the final single piece. This is laid out upside down so that the glazed surface is face down on the floor. The metal table top frame is then laid around the design and the concrete poured on top. The process has not varied for one millennium.

At the Moroccan Warehouse we always keep in stock around 20 zellige tables and are also happy to make tables and wrought iron work to specific customer requirements. Our next order for tables goes out at the end of October and will be in the warehouse by the end of Januaury, so come along and chose the design, colour and shape that you want.

We also take orders for just the zellige tiles for those of you who want to have a go at tiling your own table tops, walls or even floors.