Dazed by glaze

And as China influenced the development of azulejo, the art form also came to China through Macao, which was ruled by Portugal for a period until its return to China in 1999. There, such glazed ceramic panels are commonly seen near streets and compose a crucial part of the city's historical neighborhood, the Historic Centre of Macao, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"Azulejo art reflects changes in society and fine arts in Portugal from the Age of Discovery, the Renaissance and the Baroque era until modern times," Wang Xudong, director of the Palace Museum, says.

"It also shows a legend of the ancient Silk Road and a perfect example of cultural exchanges between China and Portugal."