The granite facade of the Ruins of St. Paul's stands proud on Rua de D. Belchior Carneiro in Macau, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jesuit mission. However, while the exterior walls remain intact, the interior of Mater Dei, the church's predecessor, was reduced to ashes in the 1835 fire. Yet, through the lens of 17th-century letters sent back to Rome, we can reconstruct a vivid sensory picture of the lost interior. The Jesuits were known for their innovative and eclectic approach to architecture, and Mater Dei was no exception. The church's interior was a masterful blend of Japanese lacquerware, Chinese woodwork, and Portuguese gilding. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings, while the ceiling was a kaleidoscope of colors, with Japanese lacquer panels reflecting the light in a mesmerizing display. The letters sent back to Rome provide a glimpse into the daily life of the Jesuit priests, who were responsible for the design and construction of the church. They wrote about the intricate details of the carvings, the delicate balance of the wooden structures, and the way the light danced through the lacquer panels. These letters offer a unique perspective on the artistic and cultural exchange that took place during the Jesuit mission in Macau. One of the most striking aspects of the lost interior of Mater Dei is the use of Japanese lacquerware. The Jesuits were known to have imported lacquer panels from Japan, which they incorporated into the church's design. These panels were not only beautiful but also served as a symbol of the cultural exchange between East and West. The Chinese woodwork that adorned the church's interior was equally impressive. The Jesuits worked closely with Chinese craftsmen to create intricate carvings and delicate wooden structures that added to the church's beauty. The Portuguese gilding that covered the walls and ceiling added a touch of luxury and sophistication to the interior. The lost interior of Mater Dei is a testament to the innovative and eclectic approach of the Jesuits. Through the lens of 17th-century letters, we can reconstruct a vivid sensory picture of the church's interior, a gilded cavern of Japanese lacquerware, Chinese woodwork, and Portuguese gilding. This is a story of cultural exchange, artistic innovation, and the enduring legacy of the Jesuit mission in Macau. **Image Prompt:** A DALL-E/Imagen prompt for an image of the lost interior of Mater Dei, with Japanese lacquerware, Chinese woodwork, and Portuguese gilding. The image should capture the intricate details of the carvings, the delicate balance of the wooden structures, and the way the light dances through the lacquer panels.