Adolfo Coelho
Portugal e Ilhas Adjacentes: Exposição Ethnografica Portugueza
"Portugal e Ilhas Adjacentes: Exposição Ethnografica Portugueza" by Adolfo Coelho is an ethnographic study written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a comprehensive program for an ethnographic exhibition showcasing the material culture and traditional lifestyles of the Portuguese people and the adjacent islands. Coelho, who was the president of the Ethnic Sciences Section of the Geography Society, aims to explore various aspects of Portuguese culture, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation and understanding of the nation’s ethnography. The content of the book is structured around the proposal for an extensive exhibition, and it outlines the subjects that should be included to represent the Portuguese populace accurately. Coelho details specific types of artifacts and their significance, ranging from daily life objects, traditional clothing, agricultural tools, to food and music, alongside the geographical and historical context. He emphasizes the rich cultural heritage that must be displayed, documenting the agricultural practices, social structures, and spiritual beliefs of the people. The book is a call to action for a collective effort to preserve and showcase the unique characteristics that define the Portuguese identity and promote a deeper understanding of their cultural history.