One of the traits of Mediterranean cultures seems to be its artistic expression through tilework. I first experienced it in the intricate geometric patterns that I saw during my year as a teacher in Morocco. When I visited New Mexico, I came across tilework that was influenced by the Spanish settlers who blended with the cultures of Mexico. Last January, as we wandered through cities and towns on the northern edge of the Mediterranean, I came across yet more forms of tiled artistry.
The tilework that I found this time bridged the gap of eras and cultures. Places such as Italica were sources of Roman gods, mythological beasts and wildlife found as decorations in no longer used baths and walkways. In the former mosques of Seville and the balconies of Carmona are geometric designs influenced by Muslims and which follow the Koran's statement that there will be no images of man nor beast. Then there is also the tilework of modern Spain that ranges in form from the religious to the historical representation to the modern form of advertising.
There were so many images I really enjoyed that I will need more than one blog posting to share them with you. In this group I tried to include a variety of styles and eras. For some reason or other all of the images that seemed to fit together for this post have elements of blue as part of their features. I hope that you enjoy them.
Thank you for visiting. Feel free to stop by the Tavern for another look. In the meantime, may your travels be interesting and enjoyable.
Kerry
1 comments:
Interesting note about the Koran, I wasn't aware of such a statement.
The second picture here is
so intricate and with such varied colours. Great piece of art work.
Great photos.
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