Portugal's contribution to European art during the first half of the century has yet to be explored. An examination of the 113 paintings, sculptures, drawings and periodicals introduced in this volume through both texts and illustrations makes it possible for the first time to reconstruct the emergence of Portuguese artists into the modern period. A historical outline and essays on art, literature and social issues by prominent Portuguese authors illuminate the vital links that connected the arts to political developments. Texts and illustrations regarding arts journals are documented in an effort to present the intellectual climate, and the influence of Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa is a recurring theme.