Post 1755 Lisbon Earthquake Tiles as Signs of Popular Devotion

In Portugal the use of tiles in the 18th century was considerably more intensive than in other European countries. Although tiles were profusely used elsewhere, for example in Spain and the Netherlands, in Portugal tile work became a form of art and a medium for communication and devotion, although, much like pottery, it was considered a lesser art for a long time. This paper addresses a specific form of tile decoration, aimed at popular devotion, which was used in the period following the devastating earthquake and disasters of 1755.