A mosaic is a form of decorative art, in which small tiles or fragments of pottery (known as tesserae, diminutive tessellae) are used to create a pattern or picture.
It was used in ancient times for domestic interior decoration. Mosaics are particularly associated with Roman dwellings, for example on floors; but the craft has continued through the ages, and many modern examples exist. M.C. Escher was influenced by Moorish mosaics to begin is investigations into tesselation.