The discovery
apparently did not particularly interest them because, you see, in the
East minerals were not plentiful. When, however, in the twelfth
century they conquered Spain they found in that country quantities of
lead and tin, and they then recalled that these could be used as a
glaze for pottery. In consequence they promptly set to work making an
enameled ware called Majolica or Maiolica from the Island of Maiorca.
These Moors were a highly cultured race who built in Spain beautiful
temples and palaces, among them the Alhambra, of which perhaps you
have read."
Theo's eyes shone.
"We read about it at school!" he cried.
"I am glad to hear that," exclaimed Mr. Croyden. "Then you will
remember what a wonderful structure it was. In its interior have been
found many highly glazed tiles beautifully designed and decorated in
colors and in gold. Within this palace, too, was found the famous
Alhambra Vase, three feet four inches in height, and made in 1320. It
is a piece of work quite different from anything the Greeks made, but
in its way is quite as perfect. It is of earthenware, with a white
ground, and is enameled in two shades of blue with a further
decoration of gold or copper lustre.
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