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José Ferreira Pinto Basto, landowner, merchant, businessman and true visionary founded Vista Alegre, the first Portuguese factory dedicated to the production of high quality porcelain and crystal, in 1824 for his time.
The seven-generation family home was built in the 18th century in the town of Ilhavo, district of Aveiro, not far from Porto.
In the center of this small village was the baroque church; rich in orna- ments and azulejos, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de la Percha de França and all around the factory were the crèche, the theater and the district for the workers.
Nowadays, the setting has remained unchanged with its white walls hem- med in by yellow. Everything evokes the past peacefully contemplated by the storks perched on the chimneys.
In 1947, a rich museum of 30,000 pieces came to complete the heritage of imagery and colors of Portuguese folklore by adding the modernity and elegance of Art Deco.
Portuguese tableware is an integral part of the national culture and this Museum preserves its tradition.
Vista Alegre Collection Futurismo