Were the sculptures a weak instrument of nationalization in Portugal? Revolution and monarchy in Lisbon and countryside (1820-1910)

Abstract

This research analyses the sculptures of Portugal during the monarchical constitutional liberalism (1834-1910). From the perspective  of social history, the sculptures are analysed, considering one of the great forgotten matter in contemporary Portuguese studies.  The objective is to explore the role played by the statues in the creation of the Nation-State. In the first place, we establish a cultural-historical vision that allows understanding the importance of these monuments in the public space. Second, from a perspective of  power and gender, we approach the sculptural art made at that time. Third, we bring to light the monuments and busts made by  then on the representatives of the Estate or the res publica at that time. The investigation concludes, on the one hand, that the  political sculptures of monarchs such as Pedro IV, Maria II and their descendants, achieved a weak nationalization of the constitutional monarchical State in Portugal. On the other hand, by analysing the busts of politicians and heroes, it considers that  sculptural art opened the door to other representatives of the common good. Their sculptures could be interpreted by citizens as a  way of democratization, indicating that the people were allowed to reach power, creating a symbolic environment that could justify  the arrival of the Republic.