Islamic-Inspired Clay Slab Boxes

Fifth grade boys are learning about the Middle East in History/Geography class, so their most recent clay project was inspired by rich and beautiful Islamic pattern designs. In a religious context, Muslims do not draw human figures or animals because the Qur'an teaches that only God should be worshiped. In religious Islamic art, geometric designs, floral designs and calligraphy are all commonly used. The striking geometric designs create the impression of unending repetition, which is believed by some to encourage the contemplation of the infinite nature of God.


Students used geometric and floral designs to decorate the sides of their clay boxes. For the lid, the boys embossed their name, translated into Arabic and reading right to left, onto thin metal sheets using special wooden tools. A patina was added with ink and gently buffed away to create depth and contrast.