Between candlesticks, vases, busts of saints and statues of apostles: cerimonial and baroque pomp at the main altar of the Patriarchate Basilica of Lisbon

Abstract

The Patriarchate Basilica – originally the Royal Chapel that was elevated in 1716 through Pope Clement XI papal bull – is in itself as one of the most emblematic and significant buildings of king John V Lisbon, both because of its physical characteristics and location in the context of the city, but also for the meaning that it assumed in the troubled relationships between Portugal and the Holy See during his reign. This building was subject to a growing attention from the monarch, which, of course, also meant a increasingly artistic enrichment of space with works of art, and a growing investment in the ceremonial preparation and sophistication, intended to be performed in the image of the pontifical city.

This paper will discuss the measures taken to assure this ceremonial was performed in the papal way and also the silver pieces used. Ceremonial and silver both having their origin in Rome, the admired pontifical city.