Altar frontal

This altar frontal, originally from the Monastery of Lorvão, is a beautiful example of the crossing of cultures, combining themes of Indian chintz in the panels, with motifs of damask and European brocades in the frame. The panels, in blue, green and yellow tones on a white background, depict delicate foliage with large flowers with magnificent petals, small leaves and fruits, and birds with long tails soaring over the scene. The lower parts of the panels are made up of a landscape with a Chinese-style pagoda and varied fauna, composed of gazelles, rabbits and ducks in movement. Altar frontals employing tiles arose following the decision of the Council of Seville in 1509, which advised against the use of luxurious fabrics in the adornment of churches.