A honeycomb-like decorative motif consisting of numerous niches and niche fragments. It was first seen in the Islamic world in the 11th century AD. It is used primarily as an internal cladding for curved architectural elements Ñ for example, in domes and, above all, in the transitional zones between domes and their supports; also in mibrab niches, tops of window openings, on capitals instead of tambours, and ledges.