Celebrate the rich mathematical harmony, elaborate arabesques, and mesmerizing geometric perfection of Islamic design history with this magnificent antique ornamental poster. Originally compiled in 1856 by the pioneering British architect and design theorist Owen Jones for his seminal masterpiece The Grammar of Ornament, this striking plate is titled Persian No. 2 (Plate XLIV).

Showcasing an extraordinary assortment of authentic Persian surface motifs—ranging from intricate interlocking star polygons (girih networks) and winding floral borders to stylized tile mosaics and repeating diaper grids—this meticulously restored print captures the breathtaking complexity of Eastern decorative arts. Rendered in a stunning historical palette of rich terracotta red, deep lapis blue, malachite green, and warm saffron yellow against a naturally aged cream background, this print infuses modern spaces with a sophisticated, globally minded graphic statement.

The History:

First published in London in 1856, The Grammar of Ornament by Owen Jones (1809–1874) remains one of the most celebrated and influential design sourcebooks ever produced. Jones spent years traveling and documenting cross-cultural decorative traditions, advocating that all ornament should arise from structural function rather than superficial imitation. Plate XLIV (Persian No. 2) represents his deep appreciation for Islamic geometric principles and Persian design, which he praised for its brilliant spatial distribution, rhythmic flow, and flawless execution of flat ornamentation. Utilizing groundbreaking chromolithographic printing techniques alongside master lithographer Francis Bedford, Jones preserved these historic patterns to demonstrate how ancient artisans combined complex mathematics with artistic elegance to achieve sublime visual harmony.

The Aesthetic:

A masterclass in spatial division and historical pattern arrangement, this composition gathers a breathtaking variety of Persian motifs into a beautifully structured visual grid. The upper panels highlight vibrant, multi-colored geometric star patterns and elaborate floral friezes. As the eye moves down the plate, the layout features intricate border bands, repeating diamond medallions, and a spectacular, highly detailed radial star network at the lower-center that showcases the pinnacle of Islamic geometric art. Framed by classical multilingual notations (“PERSISCH,” “PERSIAN Nº 2,” “PERSES”) at the upper margin, this poster effortlessly transforms architectural and archaeological studies into a bold, high-contrast decorative display.

It is an ideal statement piece for:

Architects, historians, interior designers, Islamic art enthusiasts, and collectors of rare Victorian lithography and historic textile patterns.
Executive home offices, main bedrooms, texturally rich living rooms, libraries, or as a striking geometric anchor within a curated gallery wall.
Eclectic, Moroccan-inspired, bohemian, maximalist, or transitional interior design styles that value bold geometric color-blocking and rich historical narratives.

Product Details

Artist: Owen Jones – Vintage Chromolithograph Poster
Title: Persian No. 2 Patterns (Plate XLIV – The Grammar of Ornament)
Subject: Antique Persian Architectural and Geometric Tile Patterns
Original Year: 1856
Style: Victorian Chromolithography / Historical Persian Ornament / Islamic Geometric Art

Museum-Quality Vintage Prints

Our vintage posters are made to order using premium Giclée printing techniques. Every piece is printed on thick, heavyweight fine art paper (200gsm) with a smooth, completely matte finish.

We specifically source an acid-free, natural-toned paper that perfectly recreates the warmth and authentic character of original mid-century lithographs. Unlike standard glossy posters, our premium matte finish ensures there is zero glare when your artwork is framed behind glass, resulting in a rich, museum-quality display. Combined with long-lasting, UV-resistant pigment inks, your print is designed to remain vibrant for generations.