Aim of the project

This initiative, entitled Medieval colours: comparative material studies of Norwegian and Portuguese polychrome sculpture, funded by the EEA Grants (www.eeagrants.org), will unite conservation and heritage researchers at NOVA University, Portuguese National Museums, the University of Oslo, and the National Trust of Norway. The aim is to study polychrome sculpture from the medieval period in Portugal and Norway (c. 1150–1535). Surviving examples have been investigated within very different research traditions, which pose significant challenges for comparing the long and complex histories of these objects, chiefly their histories of restoration and conservation.

In Portugal, research has been mostly limited to art-historical and iconographic studies, with recent investments in systematic material studies. These sculptures have either poorly preserved original polychromy or the nature of the original cannot be assessed since original layers have unsystematically been removed and are covered by later decorations. This has had a significant impact on the condition and interpretation of these pieces. 

By contrast, research in Norway has focussed on the characterization of original materials and, unlike in Portugal, some examples retain original decoration that is not substantially covered by later repaints. Since the 1960s, many foundational studies have been published, which enhance understanding of craftsmanship, devotional practices, and restoration histories. Still, substantial information remains in internal reports. Perhaps the most significant barrier to comparing medieval sculptures in these countries is that unpublished studies are written in Portuguese and Norwegian, continuing to hamper access to crucial information. 

To address challenges and to learn from contrasting realities, we aim to re-examine past results and methodologies, and set dialogues between established experts, to strengthen cooperation and develop multifaceted interpretations, in advance of a much larger initiative to place medieval polychromed heritage in Portugal and Norway into a broader European context.