A tessellation is a pattern made by fitting together shapes without any gaps or overlaps. These shapes can be regular, like squares and triangles, or irregular, like more complex polygons. Tessellations can be found in art, architecture, and nature, showcasing how shapes can create beautiful designs. One famous example of tessellations is the work of artist M.C. Escher, who created intricate patterns that often featured interlocking figures. Tessellations are also used in mathematics to study symmetry and geometry, helping to understand how shapes can fill a space efficiently.