If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit somewhere like the Alhambra in Spain or Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, you already know that the aniconistic provisions of Islamic scripture mean that, over the centuries, Muslim artists have created abstract patterns of remarkable beauty. Their work interweaves intricate geometric tessellations and ornate calligraphy to stunning effect. These photos, by photographer Mohammad Domiri, come via Design Boom, and they’re some of the most gorgeous examples of this design you’ll ever see — they capture the interiors of palaces and mosques from all over Domiri’s native Iran. In a sadly polarized world where Islamic culture is often stereotyped and misunderstood, they’re also a reminder that the Middle East has given the world some of its most wonderful cultural artifacts.
Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque, Isfahan, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Ceiling of Chehel Souton palace, Isfahan, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Columns, carpet and light. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Shah Mosque, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Ceiling of Jameh Mosque, Yazd, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Ceiling of Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque, Shiraz, Iran. Isfahan
Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque, Shiraz, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Palace of Eight Heavens, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Dome of Seyyed Mosque, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Dome of Shah Mosque, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri
Shah Mosque, Isfahan, Iran. Photo credit: Mohammad Domiri