O culto da arte em Portugal   By: José Duarte Ramalho Ortigão (1836-1915)

In "O culto da arte em Portugal," José Duarte Ramalho Ortigão delves into the history and evolution of art in Portugal, exploring the country's cultural heritage and its impact on society. Ortigão's writing is both informative and engaging, offering readers a comprehensive look at the development of art in Portugal from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The author's passion for the subject is evident throughout the book, as he brings to life the works of famous Portuguese artists and discusses the influence of various art movements on the country's artistic landscape. Ortigão's deep knowledge of art history is evident in his detailed analysis of the cultural and social context in which these works were created, providing valuable insights into the significance of art in Portuguese society.

One of the strengths of "O culto da arte em Portugal" is Ortigão's ability to make complex artistic concepts accessible to readers of all levels of expertise. He avoids overly technical language and instead focuses on conveying the emotional and intellectual impact of artworks, making the book a rewarding read for both art enthusiasts and those new to the subject.

Overall, "O culto da arte em Portugal" is a compelling exploration of the rich artistic tradition of Portugal, offering readers a deeper understanding of the country's cultural identity and the importance of art in shaping its history. Ortigão's insightful analysis and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in Portuguese art and culture.

First Page:

Durante a Renascença, e ainda atravez da Edade Média, tão insufficientemente conhecida no enigma da sua cultura artistica, os reis, os monges, os fidalgos, os burguezes enriquecidos ostentavam o fausto e a pompa hierarchica não sómente construindo palacios e castellos, que enobreciam os logares que elles habitavam, mas erigindo basilicas e cathedraes, em que se concentravam todos os esforços do talento de uma raça, e eram verdadeiramente os palacios do povo, doados magnanimamente pelos mais poderosos aos mais humildes, em nome de Deus, em nome do rei, em honra da patria... Continue reading book >>