The inspiration for the Arabesque Collections
The Nisaa collection features beautiful arabesque patterns derived from ancient palace architecture and ceremonial henna art and designed to caress and adorn the wearer.
In ancient Sumerian, nisaa is interpreted as, “She, who makes the men forget.” The Nisaa collection is the ultimate gift a lover gives to his beloved; it represents the love and passion that binds two souls together as one.
“I’m your moon and your moonlight,
I’m your flower garden and your water too.
I’m yours,
My body is a candle, touched by your fire…”
-Rumi
The Origins of Arabesque Design
The term arabesque describes an interlaced, geometric ornament prevalent in Islamic art and architecture. The use of arabesque ornamentation, which is said to have originated in 10th century Baghdad, became highly ubiquitous throughout the Islamic world, and was used mainly for sacred architecture, illustration, and pottery.
While Islamic art was heavily influenced by Persian art as well as Roman and Byzantine architecture, its distinctive style was molded by religious restrictions dictated by the Koran. Mohammed warned artists not to imitate God, who is the only creator of life and living things. Therefore, most Islamic art consisted of ornamental designs void of animals or people. Another restriction discouraged the use of costly materials; artists responded by creating intricate patterns and exquisite ornamentation. This stylized decoration is characterized by spiraling and intertwining lines inspired by the twisting nature of vines, leaves, and flowers.
Arabesque ornamentation became increasingly popular in India with the spread of the Mughal Empire. Besides adorning palaces and temples, it was also implemented into the ceremonial practice of mehndi.
Mendhi & Arabesque Body Ornamentation
Mehndi is an ancient form of intricate body art created by using a special herbal paste of turmeric, henna, and natural oils. Believed to have originated in South Asia, the use of mehndi and turmeric is detailed in ancient Hindu Vedic writings, and is still used today to celebrate special occasions.
Mehndi, or henna, is intended to be a symbolic representation of the sacred, universal energy awakening the inner, divine light within the body. Combining these temporary henna tattoos with precious gemstones corresponding to the astrological signs of the wearer is considered particularly auspicious. Some tribes in Africa use henna as part of their spiritual practices, believing it will ward off evil spirits.
In India and Nepal, it is traditionally customary to adorn young brides with beautiful mehndi tattoos a few days prior to the wedding; in this way, the henna stain can mature and deepen in color. In other cases, the night before the wedding is dedicated to adorning the bride with henna. It is believed that the darker the color, the deeper the love between newlyweds. In accordance with tradition, the groom’s initials must be hidden in the intricate arabesque designs. On the wedding night, the groom must search for his concealed initials; failure to find them will result in a gift of jewelry to his wife, asking for forgiveness.
