Master João da Silva House Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa

Location

The Mestre João da Silva House Museum is located on Rua Tenente Raul Cascais, a discreet street situated in the Rato area, right in the central part of Lisbon. Its position in the city is within an urban context that combines residential tranquility with proximity to points of interest, and it is part of an area with particular architectural and historical value in the Portuguese capital.

A Legacy of an Artist

This space was the residence and studio of João da Silva (1880-1960), a prominent name in Portuguese sculpture with international recognition. The site preserves the artist's valuable collection, offering a glimpse into his prolific career. Here, it is possible to find an extensive collection of works, including clay and plaster sculptures, original molds, bronzes, porcelain pieces, medals, and a variety of drawings, which illustrate the diversity and mastery of his artistic output.

A Singular Architectural Vision

The building's architecture, dating from the 20th century, presents notable characteristics that distinguish it in Lisbon's urban landscape. With a modernist style and inspirations from the Bauhaus school, the house was designed to function seamlessly as a dwelling, studio, and exhibition gallery. The project, in which João da Silva himself collaborated with French architects, stands out for its "U" shape organization around an interior courtyard, providing an innovative experience of space and light for its time.

A Heritage Undergoing Recovery

Currently, the Mestre João da Silva House Museum is undergoing significant recovery and restoration work. After a period of closure, the National Society of Fine Arts (SNBA) has taken responsibility for the conservation of this heritage. Efforts are focused on cataloging and preserving the collection, as well as rehabilitating the building, with the aim of preparing for its future musealization and eventual reopening to the public. This process seeks to ensure the safeguarding and proper appreciation of Mestre João da Silva's legacy for future generations.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt