For those with an appreciation for fine craftsmanship and textile artistry, an exciting new exhibition is set to open at Galeria Tapeçarias de Portalegre in Lisbon. Beginning on 19 February, this immersive display showcases a selection of rarely seen tapestries produced by the Manufactura de Tapeçarias de Portalegre, a prestigious weaving house located in the Alentejo region of Portugal. This unique exhibition, curated by Lisbon-based interior designer Teresa Vitoria of Alchemya, offers a glimpse into the refined artistry of traditional Portuguese tapestry weaving.
A Celebration of Tradition and Modern Art
The tapestries on display are more than just decorative pieces—they represent a fascinating intersection of textile heritage and fine art. Some of the works featured in the exhibition are meticulous reproductions of paintings by renowned Portuguese and international artists, including Roger Kathy (photo at top), António Charrua, Armando Alves, David Adickes, Menez, and Rogério Ribeiro. These stunning pieces highlight the immense skill involved in transforming a painted composition into a woven masterpiece, preserving every nuance of the original brushstrokes with intricate wool threads.
A Unique Cultural Destination in Lisbon
Housed in a refurbished centuries-old building, Galeria Tapeçarias de Portalegre serves as a dedicated space for traditional textiles and tapestries, providing a rare contrast to Lisbon’s contemporary art scene. Located near Bairro Alto, the gallery functions as both a showroom and an educational space, offering visitors an in-depth look at the remarkable Portalegre weaving technique.
Unlike conventional tapestry-making, the Portalegre technique involves a high-density weaving process on vertical looms, resulting in tapestries with incredible detail and depth. This painstaking process ensures that each woven piece retains the essence of the original artwork while showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship that defines the Manufactura de Tapeçarias de Portalegre.
Plan Your Visit
The exhibition runs through 20 March 2025. For more information on the gallery, visit the Manufactura das Tapeçarias de Portalegre website.
Galeria Tapeçarias de Portalegre
Rua Academia das Ciências, 2J
(between Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto)
Lisbon
Phone: +351 213 421 481
Email: galeria@mtportalegre.pt
Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays – 14:00 to 19:30, or by appointment with tapestry expert