A Monthly Journey Through the Evolution of Portuguese Tiles
Azulejo as collective identity
Azulejos in Portugal are undoubtedly one of our defining cultural symbols, alongside Fado music, the Mediterranean diet, and the Catholic faith.
This article will be quite extensive, reflecting the long and rich history of azulejos in Portugal. To make it more accessible, it will be divided into different periods, each corresponding to key historical moments in the evolution of Portuguese tiles. We will begin by exploring how azulejos first arrived in Portugal and conclude with contemporary artists who continue this tradition today.
Like any other form of collective identity, the characteristics of azulejos have evolved in response to political and social events. Portuguese tiles are no exception. Examining this art form provides a unique lens through which to understand how major historical events have shaped artistic production and, ultimately, national identity.
The history of Portuguese tiles unfolds continuously from the late 15th century to the present day, without interruption. This journey through time will reveal how azulejos have both reflected and influenced Portugal’s cultural and artistic landscape.
Intro
1 – The Egyptian origin
The Egyptian Faience had its origin in the old Egypt around 2500 B.C. The Egyptians used this technique to create a wide range of objects that could be sacred or not. These objects could be sculptures, vessels, jewellery and ritual objects and were considered always magical with its sun radiance.
This Egyptian panel it’s part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and you can explore various old Egyptian tile and ceramic artworks following the next link.
https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/egfc/hd_egfc.htm
How had this inspiring story began?
2 – The Islamic culture in Iberia peninsula
The most important episode of this story begins around the middle of the 13th century A.D. in Al-Andalus, which was ruled at the time by the Nasrid dynasty. The most remarkable artistic achievement of this dynasty was the splendid Alhambra (al-qal‘a al-hamra). It is splendid not only for its incredible architecture but also for the decorative arts chosen to enrich the ensemble, making it one of the greatest landmarks of Muslim culture in Iberia.
These Muslim decorative arts heavily influenced a Christian style known as Mudejar art. And it is here that the history of Portuguese azulejos began.
