Introduction of the blue and white tile designs

Azulejos or Portuguese tiles are a very significant architectural feature of Portugal and these Portuguese tiles can be observed in every nook and corner of the country. The term azulejos has been derived from az-zulavi, an Arabic word meaning a kind of refined or polished stone. Whether on pavements or on churches, these brightly colored and intricately designed tiles or azulejos are instrumental in serving as mediums for painters to display significant junctures in history, spread the word of god or simply depict geometrical patterns. The Portuguese tiles have been greatly influenced by their interaction with various other civilizations from time to time. This is evident from the dominant Spanish influences that can be noticed in the designing of these tiles post the 15th century.

In the initial period, Portuguese painters were mostly interested in the production and designing of tiles in a wide variety of colors. However it is to be noted that the azulejo paintings which are most prominently recognized as being characteristic features of the Portuguese culture are the blue and white azulejos. It is already known that the Portuguese tiles were considerably impacted by Spanish influences and the introduction of the blue and white ceramic tiles can be attributed to a Spaniard named Gabriel Del Barco. Since then these blue and white azulejos became extremely popular and today they are the most prevalent among the Portuguese tiles that adorn various sections of the country. It is interesting to note that the introduction and subsequent popularity of these blue and white combination azulejos influenced artworks in various other countries the ceramists of Europe adapted this style with great vigor. The Chinese porcelain artworks also promoted these blue and white designs and hence it is evident that it emerged as the dominant art form in the 17th century Europe.