Identity and
creativity

Ceramic production in Manises dates back to the 13th century. It was inspired in the Islamic style, crafted in the Middle East in the 8th and 9th centuries. Muslim artists used a tin-glaze to imitate the metallic lustrous look of gold as both gold and silver were forbidden by Islam. This technique was introduced into Europe through Al-Andalus, and Manises became the most important producer of gold lustreware items during the 14th and 15th centuries. What is striking about this late medieval production in Manises was the use of a brilliant cobalt blue beside the golden lustre.

At the end of the 19th century, there was a new splendorous period, in which women played a major role. The 20th century brought the Art Nouveau style, and tiles were used to embellish façades.