The Azulejo (Tile) Work of Portuguese Painter José António Jorge Pinto During the Art Nouveau Period

Abstract

The azulejos (tiles) are one of the most recognizable characteristic of Portugal. The entire or partial coverage of indoor/outdoor spaces and facades of buildings has been a constant decorative and effective resource for at least five centuries. In the Art Nouveau period the tile achieved a fine level. The quality of the ceramic, transfer printing and hand painted tile compositions flooded the portuguese market, still visible through out the country in many buildings. Its character is unique among the other european manufacturers and artists. The painter José António Jorge Pinto`s independent work, is one of the most renowned of the period. He worked and made specific tiles for some of the most well know portuguese architects. The ability he had to paint and integrate his work in the architecture is extremely well coordinated, contributing to a global view of the building. His work occupies a unique place in the portuguese culture.