DescriptionThe most important element in any mosque is the mihrab, the niche that indicates the direction of Mecca. Because it functions as the focal point in prayer ritual, its decoration was executed with great skill and devotion. This example from the Madrasa Imami in Isfahan, founded in A.H. 755/A.D. 1354, is composed of a mosaic of small glazed tiles fitted together to form various geometric and floral patterns and inscriptions. A Qur'anic inscription runs from the bottom right to the bottom left; a second inscription, in kufic script, with sayings of the Prophet, borders the pointed arch of the niche; and a third inscription, in cursive, is set in a frame at the center of the niche.

Signatures, Inscriptions, and MarkingsInscriptions: (In Arabic; on outer border): Qur'an, ch. IX, v. 18-22. (In Arabic, on border of niche): "Said [the Prophet] on him be blessing and peace: . . . witness that there is no God save Allah and that Muhammad is his Apostle and the Blessed Imam, and in legal almsgiving, and in the pilgrimage, and in the fast of Ramadan, and he said, on him be blessing and peace." In Arabic, in rectangle at back): "The Prophet, peace be upon him, said, 'The Mosque is the dwelling place of the pious.' "