Portuguese Silver Book - D. Gonçalo de Vasconcelos e Sousa | Civilização Editora

Portuguese Silver in Private Collections: 15th to 20th Centuries

A magnificent reference book, "Portuguese Silverware" by D. Gonçalo de Vasconcelos e Sousa , published by Civilização Editora . A fundamental work that documents the richness and diversity of Portuguese silversmithing across five centuries, based on private collections rarely accessible to the public.

Book Characteristics

• Author: D. Gonçalo de Vasconcelos e Sousa
• Title: Portuguese Silverware in Private Collections: 15th to 20th Centuries
• Publisher: Civilização Editora
• ISBN: 972-26-1404-0
• Format: Large format with hardcover.
• Illustrations: Richly illustrated with high-quality color photographs.

About the Author

D. Gonçalo de Vasconcelos e Sousa is one of the most renowned Portuguese specialists in decorative arts, particularly in goldsmithing and silversmithing. His rigorous research and profound knowledge of Portuguese private collections make this work an indispensable reference in the study of Portuguese silver.

Comprehensive Content

The book presents an exceptional overview of Portuguese silversmithing from the 15th to the 20th centuries, documenting its stylistic, technical, and typological evolution through pieces from private collections. This approach allows access to works rarely exhibited publicly, many of which have not been published in previous editions.

Types of Topics Covered

The work covers a wide range of Portuguese silverware typologies, including religious pieces (chalices, monstrances, reliquaries, cruets), household items (salvers, trays, jugs, coffee pots, teapots, sugar bowls), ceremonial pieces (centerpieces, candlesticks, candelabras), jewelry, insignia, and decorative pieces. Each category is historically contextualized and analyzed from a stylistic and technical point of view.

Periods and Styles

The book explores Portuguese silverware through its major artistic periods: Late Gothic, Renaissance, Mannerism, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, Romanticism, Historical Revival, and Art Nouveau. Each style is illustrated with notable examples that demonstrate the quality and originality of Portuguese goldsmithing.

Brands, Goldsmiths and Production Centers

The work documents goldsmith marks, hallmarks, and punches, allowing for the identification of authors, workshops, and production centers. Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Guimarães, and other goldsmithing centers are represented, demonstrating the regional diversity of Portuguese production.

Quality Illustrations

The book is richly illustrated with high-quality color photographs that reveal the details of the decoration, execution techniques (chiseling, repoussé, filigree, enameling, gilding) and marks. The images allow for a deep visual appreciation of the craftsmanship and aesthetic quality of the pieces.

Reference Value

"Portuguese Silverware" is an essential reference work for collectors, antique dealers, museum curators, art history researchers, goldsmiths, and anyone interested in Portuguese goldsmithing. The documentation of private collections makes this book particularly valuable for the study and cataloging of similar pieces.

State of Conservation

Book in good condition. Hardcover with textured silver finish and decorative band with Baroque motifs. Clean and well-preserved pages. Clear and vibrant illustrations. ISBN visible on the back cover. Signs of use consistent with its age that do not compromise reading or appreciation of the images.

An essential work for libraries specializing in Portuguese decorative arts, for collectors of Portuguese silver, for antique dealers and appraisers, for goldsmiths and restorers, or for anyone interested in the history and evolution of Portuguese goldsmithing. A valuable investment in knowledge and Portuguese cultural heritage.