Good views: 200 Years of Tradition and Innovation with love
We spent a day in the city of Vista Alegre and it was raining… but the beauty and history of this unique place shone brightly.
The Vista Alegre porcelain factory, located in Ílhavo, It is a symbol of Portuguese excellence and tradition. Founded in 1824 by José Ferreira Pinto Basto, Vista Alegre was the first industrial unit dedicated to the production of crockery, porcelain, glassware and chemical processes on his farm called Vista-Alegre da Ermida, receiving a royal charter in 1 July of 1824 by the king D. John VI.
In the early days, the company produced glass and ceramics “grit” high-quality, standing out for its reliefs and cut ornaments, as well as the delicate medallion inlay work. To introduce porcelain production, Augusto Ferreira Pinto Basto, son of the founder, visited the French factory of Sèvres, where he studied the composition of the paste and obtained essential information for what followed in the Good views of the Hermitage.
Em 1832, kaolin deposits were discovered north of Ílhavo, allowing regular production of porcelain between 1832 and 1840. During this time, there were important improvements in the quality of pastes and glazes, in addition to very important technological advances.
The History of Vista Alegre
This visionary desire of José Ferreira Pinto Basto to create a porcelain factory that would rival the best in Europe, with the help of qualified technicians and artisans, quickly stood out for the quality and innovation of its products. Em 1829, received the title of Real Fábrica, an honor that established it as one of the most prestigious porcelain manufacturers.
The Manufacturing Complex
Upon arrival at the Vista Alegre factory complex, It is impossible not to marvel at the grandeur and history that permeates the place. The factory is made up of several historic buildings, including the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Penha de França, built in the 17th century and richly decorated with tiles and gilded carvings. This chapel is one of Vista Alegre's hidden treasures, symbolizing the union between art and devotion.
Production and Crafts
During the visit to the complex and integrated into the Museum, we observe the porcelain painting process. Each piece passes through several hands, each contributing with their skill and precision. Vista Alegre is also known for its artisanal techniques, such as manual painting and applying gold, that make each piece unique.
Vista Alegre Museum
The Vista Alegre Museum, located in the heart of the complex, recounts a fascinating journey through the history of the factory and Portuguese porcelain. The collection includes historical pieces, documents and equipment that show the evolution of the factory over the years. Interactive and audiovisual exhibitions provide an enriching experience, revealing the secrets and stories behind Vista Alegre’s creations.
It's so touching to see the pieces that spread throughout our parents' homes., grandparents, uncles and aunts, anyway… for an entire Portuguese family, throughout the Museum.
The truth is that we were walking with friends and although this was our second visit, the truth is that they had never gone, and they loved!
Innovation and Sustainability
Vista Alegre is not just synonymous with tradition, is also about innovation. The factory has continually invested in new technologies and sustainable practices, seeking to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainability. This modern approach allows Vista Alegre to continue to be a reference in the porcelain industry, maintaining the quality and beauty that made it famous.
Among collaborations with renowned artists, special releases and creation of unique collections, including tributes to indigenous people, Vista Alegre celebrates its 200 years of integrating the infinity symbol into its logo. As Nuno Barra said, company administrator, in the commemorative event integrated into the Festas da Nossa Senhora da Penha de França in the aforementioned “A place that belongs to everyone”, “estes 200 years are not the end point, but the transition from one era to another, until the Infinity.”
This iconic year that is now celebrated, Vista Alegre presented not one, but two iconic pieces – a calendar plate that references football, sport introduced in the country by a family member, William, great-grandson of the founder, it is said, com design dThe Italian artist duo ALE+ALE (Alessandri Lecis and Alessandra Panzeri) and a biscuit piece with 200 centimeters tall, whose shape and decoration evoke the past. baptized by “Talha 200”, This piece represents the extraordinary talent of its artists.
In the central branch of this monumentality, is the reinterpretation of a decoration by Joaquim José de Oliveira, painting master among 1869 and 1881. Despite its size and historical presence, the work exudes lightness and joy thanks to the combination of luminous colors. This work perfectly symbolizes the intersection between tradition and innovation that defines Vista Alegre.
Returning to our visit to the city of Vista Alegre, Here you can immerse yourself in history, art and culture of Portugal. Despite the rain that accompanied us throughout the day, the experience was illuminated by the rich heritage and the dedication of the artisans who keep the tradition of Portuguese porcelain alive. Maria who told us all the stories about the Chapel and what it presents today, fully restored, it was subliminal!
Good views is a living testimony to the talent and innovation that characterize the national industry, and an inspiration and essential visit for all lovers of our art and history.
Congratulations on these 200 years of joyful views!