Azulejo is a form of Portuguese or Spanish painted, tin-glazed, ceramic tilework. There are some exquisite examples of these on the exterior of houses and other buildings in Lisbon. But sadly there are many broken tiles to be seen.
Azulejo
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Aren’t you clever to have captured the detail of these broken tiles. I came home only with the perfect ones. Still learning. 🙂
I loved Lisbon, but I was quite distraught about the condition of a lot of the buildings, which I think I have said before. So I wanted to capture these tiles before they are ruined forever. it would be nice to think that one day perhaps someone will think about repairing the damage. And I do like decay 😉
It must be such a challenge to keep everything restored in these cities with their many century old buildings. Not to mention the economics of it.
They are ubiquitous in Macau too. I seem to remember my grandmother having some in her home in South Wales. Or perhaps those were coals.
They add such character to the place – and probably layers of history too! I’m guessing they’re hand-painted?
I guess they were once, but then became mass-produced. There are so many of them!
Oh that’s a huge pity!
What gorgeous tiles, love the blue and white. I do like the distressed look, but sure those buildings are magnificent in their pristine condition.
They are Sherri – the shame of it is that even the pristine tiled buildings are not exempt from that awful graffiti that seems prevalent in Europe.
Oh that’s a shame…and yes, I remember that in Italy now you mention it…
History, character and just plain photogenicity (probably not a real word)….wonderful! 🙂
Oh, I like photogenicity – good blog name, a bit like my urbanicity one 🙂
I’m with Sue – it wouldn’t have occurred to me to take photos of the damaged tiles! Great pictures!
I am always taking photos of decay and dereliction! Peeling paint is one of my favourites 🙂 Odd, I know.
it is so beautiful!
Thanks Aletta 🙂
Very reminiscent of Maltese tiles. I really love your lead photo with the windows Jude! Part of the beauty for me is seeing that bold colour and pattern alongside the aged plasterwork 🙂
I don’t associate tiles with Malta. I will have to have a look at my photos! Yes, those broken windows are so charming aren’t they, with the remnants of the blue tiles – I am a sucker for buildings like this.
Mum’s parents lived there for years and we all inherited pieces of tiled furniture, mostly wrought iron tables with tiled tops. Nowhere to keep one at mine though so I’ll have to photograph one of mum’s and email you!
Oh, yes!
I’m on home territory here, Jude 🙂 And very beautiful it is too!
I love these tiles too; I’ve promised myself a trip to the Azulejo museum one day.