FATHER FÉLIX ANTÔNIO LISBOA

Formal analysis of the sculptures of Saint Pedro and Saint Paulo apostles, in Piranga, Minas Gerais

Abstract

For the purpose of researching the little recognized priest and craftsman Félix Antonio Lisboa, active in Ouro Preto, during the last quarter of the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, formal analyzes were carried out aiming at the recognition of his “signature”. The polychrome wood carvings, St. Peter and St. Paul the Apostles, unique so far with supporting documentation of their own, occupy the side niches of the main altarpiece of the Sanctuary of Bom Senhor Jesus de Matosinhos, in Piranga, former village of Bacalhau in Minas Gerais. The research based on literature data and photographic records collected in loco, resulted in the observation of shards or styles. Nevertheless, his brother, Antonio Francisco Lisboa, Aleijadinho, is by far the most exalted name in the Minas Gerais School of Sacred Sculpture and has overshadowed the other artisans, who are still unknown or poorly researched, and must be rescued for their diverse and rich cultural contribution.