The Evolution of Portuguese Tile Art: Blending and Transformation from the Homeland to Macao, China
- 1 Department of Innovation and Design, City University of Macau, Macao, China
Abstract
This paper traces the development of Portuguese Azulejo tile art, examining its stylistic changes and technical innovations throughout history, with a specific focus on its regional transformation after its introduction to Macao. Employing a combination of literature review and field research, the analysis encompasses the entire journey of Portuguese tiles, from their Islamic cultural influences to modern artistic expression, as well as their integration, adaptation, and cultural transmission within Macao’s multicultural context. The study demonstrates that Portuguese tiles are not merely decorative art forms but also vehicles for cultural identity and visual expressions of historical memory. Their evolution in Macao serves as a vivid example of cross-cultural dialogue.
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