Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro Museum

The Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro Museum displays ceramics, illustrations, and caricatures arranged across several floors in a building designed in the early 1900s. The gallery spaces show handcrafted pieces alongside printed works that span the artist's career and demonstrate his range across multiple mediums.

The building was designed by architect Álvaro Machado in the early 1900s to house works by Portuguese artist Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro. The artworks date from a period when this artist significantly shaped Portugal's visual culture and media landscape.

The collection centers on Zé Povinho, a character created by Bordalo Pinheiro to depict Portuguese life through satirical ceramics and drawings. This figure comes alive through handcrafted objects and sketches that mirror the everyday realities and social observations of the era.

The galleries spread across multiple levels, so expect stairs and plan for a thorough visit to see all the collections. Informational materials are available on site to help you understand the different works and their context.

Bordalo Pinheiro used traditional ceramic techniques to deliver social commentary through three-dimensional objects. This blend of craftsmanship and political message transforms his works into more than decorative pieces.