Stories of An Empire

Stories of an Empire discloses to the public one of the most important collections assembled in Portugal during the last 30 years. It tells us about travels, forms, techniques, materials, primarily between Portugal and Asia, but also Africa and Brazil.

The maritime adventure of the Portuguese, which lasted from the 15th century until the beginning of the 19th century, profoundly altered the lives of all peoples at the time. This influence remained for future generations.

The Távora Sequeira Pinto collection exhibition presents a visual essay on the richness and complexity of the art produced in the commercial network created by Portugal in Asia.

There are plentiful records of the cross-migration of peoples and of the introduction of plant and animal species that modern inhabitants have no idea were non-existent in those lands five centuries before.

The assimilation of European typologies can be observed in various parts of Asia, especially well documented by pieces of furniture.

Also materials and techniques traveled from place to place, transforming art around the world, such as ivory and lacquer. Pieces produced in Asia and made of African ivory, confirm the globalization created by the Portuguese trade.

The numerous religious pieces clearly demonstrate the missionary character of the Portuguese Expansion.

Goa stood as the greatest centre of sacred art production, from which the models spread across the Asian empire. Also remarkable is the formation of other artistic hubs.

“Goldsmiths and silversmiths” are some of the most interesting artistic manifestations of this period. Few very rich objects, like the aquamanile Caquesseitão, have reached our days. However they are enough to attest the global importance of the production of luxury objects.

The encounter with products from the East brought news and reconfiguration of the knowledge that had been circulating in Europe for a long time. Owning objects such as bezoars, amber, pearls, diamonds, or rubies, was a demonstration of power and relevance. 

The Portuguese of the 16th century who arrived in Asia were seen in different ways, by the various societies. Observed with curiosity and desire for imitation by some, with the will to emphasize differences by others. Were the Portuguese exotic?