Portugal’s handover of Macau – a territory it had ruled since the 16th century – marked the end of one of the longest-lasting empires in history. But the influence of Portuguese art, architecture and craft still linger in the form of azulejos – the unique ceramic tiles characteristically used to decorate colonialera buildings and public spaces. Each is a prize of craftsmanship and a work of art in itself, evoking a time, place and culture and a texture of life that is rapidly disappearing as Macau transforms into a ‘Vegas of the East’.

This book explores and documents the city’s remaining examples of this ancient art form – before they vanish forever.