Cross-Shaped Tile second half 13th-early 14th century This cross-shaped tile was decorated using a technique called lajvardina, a term that reference lapis lazuli, a deep blue colored stone containing gold particles. After an initial firing to establish the dark blue and turquoise background, the tile underwent a second firing to set the overglazed details and the carefully cut and placed specks of gold leaf that create a glimmering surface. A nearly symmetrical vine pattern, once covered in gold leaf, is surrounded by gold and black decoration that occupies the background of this tile, which would have been an element in a star-and-cross panel adorning the walls of an Ilkhanid palace, mosque, or mausoleum.. Cross-Shaped Tile. second half 13th-early 14th century. Stonepaste; overglaze painted and leaf gilded (lajvardina). Made in Iran. Ceramics-Tiles