Book: The Tableware of the Portuguese Crown - Leonor d'Orey | Royal Goldsmithing

The Portuguese Crown Tableware - A Monumental Work on Royal Goldsmithing

Leonor d'Orey's magnificent book, "The Tableware of the Portuguese Crown," is a monumental and seminal work documenting the extraordinary pieces of goldsmithing that comprise the Portuguese royal tableware. It is a testament to the splendor and artistic richness of the Portuguese monarchy.

Book Characteristics

• Author: Leonor d'Orey (specialist in Portuguese goldsmithing)
• Title: The Tableware of the Portuguese Crown
• Format: Large format with hardcover.
• Illustrations: High-quality photographs of pieces from the royal tableware.
• Finish: Dark blue cover with a silver photograph of a Baroque piece.
• Language: Portuguese

About the Author

Leonor d'Orey is one of the most renowned Portuguese experts in goldsmithing and decorative arts, with particular expertise in royal goldsmithing and the collections of the Portuguese Royal House. Her rigorous research and profound knowledge of historical pieces make this work an indispensable reference.

The Portuguese Crown Tableware

The Portuguese Crown tableware is an extraordinary collection of silver and gilded silver pieces, created over the centuries for the ceremonial and protocol use of the Portuguese monarchy. These pieces represent the pinnacle of Portuguese and European goldsmithing art, combining functionality with artistic virtuosity.

Cover Piece

The cover features a magnificent Baroque piece in silver: a centerpiece or SOBREUT DE TABLE with figures of putti (infant angels) holding gilded shells, decorated with naturalistic elements (flowers, foliage, fruits) and set on a Rococo base with embossed ornaments. The piece exemplifies the splendor and technical complexity of Portuguese royal goldsmithing.

Comprehensive Content

The book documents the main pieces of Portuguese royal tableware, including centerpieces, tureens, salvers, trays, candlesticks, candelabras, jugs, goblets, ceremonial cutlery, and other stately pieces. Each object is historically contextualized, analyzed from a stylistic and technical point of view, and photographically documented.

Periods and Styles

The work encompasses pieces from different periods of the Portuguese monarchy, from the Baroque to the 19th century, documenting the stylistic evolution of royal goldsmithing through the Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, and Romantic styles. Each period is represented by emblematic pieces.

Goldsmiths and Trademarks

The book documents the goldsmith's marks, hallmarks, and punches of the pieces, allowing for the identification of authors, workshops, and periods of execution. Many pieces are attributed to the most prestigious Portuguese and European goldsmiths who worked for the Court.

Quality Photography

The pieces are documented through high-quality photographs that reveal the details of the chiseled, repoussé, and cast decoration, the gilding techniques, the sculptural and ornamental elements, and the goldsmith's marks. The images allow for a deep appreciation of the craftsmanship.

Historical and Artistic Value

The Portuguese Crown's tableware represents not only a collection of luxury objects, but a material testament to the history, power, and aesthetic taste of the Portuguese monarchy. These pieces were used in state ceremonies, royal banquets, and diplomatic events, standing silently as witnesses to important historical moments.

State of Conservation

Book in good condition. Hardcover with a glossy dark blue finish. Well-preserved photograph of the Baroque piece with excellent definition. Clean pages. Sharp illustrations. Signs of use consistent with its age that do not compromise reading or appreciation of the images.

An essential work for libraries specializing in decorative arts and the history of Portugal, for collectors of Portuguese goldsmithing, for museums and palaces, for art history researchers, for goldsmiths and restorers, or for anyone interested in the history of the Portuguese monarchy and the national artistic heritage. A valuable investment in knowledge and culture about one of the most important collections of royal goldsmithing in Europe.