The word "tessella" is spelled with a double "s" along with two "l"s, which can be explained with the help of its phonetic transcription in IPA as /tɛˈsɛla/. The first "s" is pronounced as /s/ while the second is pronounced like /z/ as it comes before the vowel "e". The double "l" after that is indicative of a gemination of the L sound, which is pronounced twice as long as usual. The final "a" is pronounced as /a/ with a short "e" sound.
A tessella is a small, square or rectangular piece of finely crafted material typically used in creating mosaics. Originating from the Latin word "tessellum," meaning small square tablet, the term tessella refers to a singular unit that forms a part of a larger mosaic composition.
Traditionally, tessellae have been made from various materials such as stone, glass, ceramic, or even marble. These small pieces are carefully cut and shaped into uniform shapes, often with intricate designs or patterns. Each tessella is individually crafted and then meticulously arranged and adhered to a surface, such as a floor or wall, to create a larger mosaic artwork. This technique allows for the formation of intricate, detailed images or decorative patterns, including geometric shapes, scenes from nature, or abstract designs.
Tessellae are known for their ability to provide visual interest and artistic expression, transforming ordinary surfaces into stunning works of art. The precise placement and arrangement of tessellae allow for the creation of a seamless, harmonious design. This practice has a rich history and was particularly prevalent during ancient Roman and Byzantine eras, where opulent and elaborate mosaic artworks were commonplace.
In contemporary art, the term tessella may also be used to describe similar small, square or rectangular pieces used in modern mosaic creations. This definition captures both the historical and contemporary context of tessellae as essential components in the art of mosaic making.
The word "tessella" originates from the Latin term "tessella", which means "small square" or "a little tile". In turn, "tessella" is derived from the Latin word "tessera", which refers to a small cube or tile made of stone, glass, or clay. The word "tessera" eventually developed into "tessella" as it entered Late Latin. This term was then borrowed into Old French as "tessele", and later it became "tesselle" in Middle English. From there, it entered into modern English as "tessella", which still refers to small mosaic tiles used in decorative patterns.