Star-shaped tile with phoenix (simurgh).

ILKHANID Anonymous (1206 - 1356): Eight-pointed star-shaped tiles were used in dado panels where cross-shaped tiles would connect the stars at the corners. The Ilkhanid period of Islamic art saw an influx of Chinese motifs and styles. The phoenix - which developed into the simurgh - and puffy cloud forms can be seen in this tile. Around the edge following the shape of the tile is a verse in Naskli script: Beloved whose face is like the sun if only the sun were adorned with musk. The date is written in the upper right-hand corner.