A Social History of Porcelain and Faience in Portugal During the Early Modern Age cover

Published:28/08/2026Language:EnglishPages:212, Illustrated throughout in black & white and colour.BAR Number: S3283Series: BAR International Series

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A Social History of Porcelain and Faience in Portugal During the Early Modern Age

Name: A Social History of Porcelain and Faience in Portugal During the Early Modern Age
SKU: A Social History of Porcelain and Faience in Portugal During the Early Modern Age
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Written by Gustavo Portocarrero

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Description

This book explores the social history of porcelain and tin-glazed earthenware in Portugal between c. 1300 and 1770. Drawing on archaeological evidence, documentary sources and the study of iconography, it moves beyond traditional typological approaches to examine how ceramics participated in the construction of identities and social relationships.

From the first glazed wares imported into medieval Portuguese cities to the widespread consumption of faience and Chinese porcelain in the Early Modern Age, ceramics are analysed as active agents in processes of distinction, religious expression, gender formation, social mobility and political power. Particular attention is given to the role of consumption in shaping urban, religious, national and class identities, as well as to the impact of the Civilising Process on changing habits of dining, hygiene and sociability.

By integrating archaeology, history and art history, this study offers the first comprehensive interpretation of the social meanings of porcelain and faience in Portuguese society across nearly five centuries.

About the Author

Gustavo Portocarrero is an archaeologist with a PhD from the University of Wales, Lampeter. He specialises in the social history of Early Modern Portuguese material culture.

Reviews

‘Portocarrero marshals extensive ceramics data generated by compliance archaeology projects on medieval and post-medieval sites and blends this with social history in a highly original way.’ Dr Steven R. Pendery, Independent scholar ‘The work’s originality stems from its ability to synthesize data from diverse fields of study into a single volume, approaching them through a comprehensive socio-cultural lens. In my opinion, the author’s ability to integrate and expand upon various disciplinary perspectives will establish this work as an essential reference for future research in this field.’ Anabela P. de Sá, ERA-Arqueologia