Solar is now in the third generation of the Leitão family, trading from the 1940’s and in this location since 1957.
The filosophy of Solar antiques is to share the knowledge about tiles as well as Portuguese decorative arts.
In addition to being an Antiques dealer, Solar’s main purpose is the rescue and conservation of our heritage.
Solar was classified by The New York Times as one of the 12 Treasures of Europe (the only one in Portugal).
We always try to show what Portugal has best, through the different influences, from Hispano – Moorish ones, 17th century, ones, with the influences from the Middle and Far East, the golden era of the great masters of the 18th century, the ones used for the reconstruction of Lisbon after the earthquake, to the myriad of patterns of the 19th century without forgetting the great Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro with his Art Nouveau ones.
The Origins of the Solar Antiques Legacy
The roots of the Leitão family’s connection to Portuguese art and heritage trace back to the mid-20th century.
In the early 1950s, the family’s patriarch worked for the Portuguese government and travelled extensively throughout the country. During these journeys, he developed a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship — especially the artistry of ceramic tiles.
While building his estate near Lisbon, he began collecting antique tiles from the many regions he visited. His eye for detail and passion for preservation soon led to a remarkable collection that reflected the diversity and beauty of Portugal’s ceramic traditions.
By 1957, with his estate completed and a surplus of tiles on hand, he recognized a unique opportunity. At a time when few specialized in such objects, he opened a small shop dedicated to Portuguese antiques and tiles — in the same location where the family business still operates today.
What began as a personal pursuit of beauty and heritage evolved into a lifelong vocation: preserving, studying, and sharing the artistic legacy of Portugal.
More than six decades later, the Leitão name as well as Solar Antiques remains synonymous with authenticity, cultural respect, and a refined eye for craftsmanship — values that continue to guide the family’s work.
Solar is now in the third generation of the Leitão family, trading from the 1940’s and in this location since 1957.
The filosophy of Solar antiques is to share the knowledge about tiles as well as Portuguese decorative arts.
In addition to being an Antiques dealer, Solar’s main purpose is the rescue and conservation of our heritage.
Solar was classified by The New York Times as one of the 12 Treasures of Europe (the only one in Portugal).
We always try to show what Portugal has best, through the different influences, from Hispano – Moorish ones, 17th century, ones, with the influences from the Middle and Far East, the golden era of the great masters of the 18th century, the ones used for the reconstruction of Lisbon after the earthquake, to the myriad of patterns of the 19th century without forgetting the great Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro with his Art Nouveau ones.
“We believe we are the present custodians of the pieces. They had previous owners before us — and will have many more in the future.” — Solar Antiques
Our Team
Manuel Leitão
Special ProjectsWith a passion for history and an eye for detail, Manuel oversees unique restorations and acquisitions, ensuring every project reflects the timeless character and integrity of the collection.
Verónica Leitão
Guardian of LegacyCombining precision with vision, Verónica preserves the balance between heritage and growth, ensuring the store endures with the same grace as the works it protects.
Hugo Cardoso
Sales Manager ExtraordinaireA true connoisseur of fine craftsmanship, Hugo brings each piece’s story to life, transforming every visit into a memorable encounter with art, tradition, and provenance.
José Luís Carvalho
Head of AtelierMaster of the workshop, José Luís leads the atelier with patience and expertise, guiding every restoration from fragment to masterpiece with quiet authority and craftsmanship.
Joaquim Manuel Moreno
Head Tile RestorerWith decades of experience and a profound respect for original technique, Joaquim brings life back to centuries-old tiles, allowing each glaze and crackle to tell its own story.
Inês Vicente
Art RestorerMeticulous and intuitive, Inês handles each artwork with sensitivity, revealing the colours and textures that time once concealed while honouring the artist’s original intent.
Vítor Pinto
Atelier AssistantA true jack-of-all-trades, Vítor supports every corner of the workshop, from delicate handling to practical ingenuity—always ensuring the smooth rhythm of daily work.