How simple tools create the intricate patterns of Islamic design

Ideas & Philosophy · Published 8 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Explore the mathematical elegance behind Islamic geometric art. This video demonstrates how complex patterns found in mosques and palaces can be constructed using only a compass and a ruler.

Islamic geometric design is a ubiquitous element of cultural architecture, appearing in madrasas, private homes, and mosques. Despite the visual sophistication of these patterns, they are built from fundamental principles using only a compass to draw circles and a ruler to create straight lines.

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