Portuguese Hand Painted Dressing Screen

About the Item

This antique Portuguese dressing screen is an exquisite piece of decorative art that encapsulates the rich history and cultural heritage of Lisbon and Portugal's Age of Discovery. Each of the four panels, measuring approximately 49.5 cm in width, showcases hand-painted scenes with exceptional detail and historical accuracy. On one side of the screen, there are vivid depictions of Lisbon's iconic historical monuments. These include a representation of the Torre de Belém, a fortified tower that served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers and as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. Adjacent to it is a scene of the Aqueduto das Águas Livres, the remarkable aqueduct that spans the Alcantara Valley, characterized by its series of gothic arches that have stood for centuries. Flanking these are other significant architectural wonders and daily life scenes that capture the essence of historic Lisbon, rendered with a careful eye to the architectural and human details that give life to the city's past. On the reverse side, the screen honors Portugal's Age of Discovery with maritime motifs, including majestic caravels sailing the ocean, the cross of the Order of Christ that adorned many Portuguese sails, and navigational instruments reflecting the country's pioneering role in world exploration. The lower sections of each panel are embellished with opulent heraldic crests and motifs, suggesting a connection to nobility or a commemoration of Portugal's noble families and their contributions to the nation's storied explorative endeavors. The woodwork is also notable, with the panels bordered by dark, richly stained wood that frames the artwork, enhancing its antique allure. The screen's top features arched designs, perhaps reminiscent of the Manueline style, which was prominent during Portugal's golden era of discoveries. Overall, the dressing screen stands not only as a functional piece of furniture but also as a testament to Portugal's historical significance, a canvas that tells stories of a bygone era through its artistry and craftsmanship.

Dimensions:

Height: 63 in (160 cm)Width: 78.75 in (200 cm)Depth: 1.38 in (3.5 cm)

Style:

Other (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Wood,Hand-Painted

Place of Origin:

Portugal

Period:

Mid-19th Century

Date of Manufacture:

circa 1850