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The Regional Government has accepted the donation of a valuable 16th-century Luso-Flemish sculpture, offered by two companies under cultural patronage, which will be integrated into the collection of the Quinta das Cruzes Museum.
Madeira's cultural heritage has just been enriched with a highly valuable historical piece, the result of a private donation. The Government Council approved the acceptance of an in-kind donation under the cultural patronage regime.
Through Resolution of the Regional Government Council No. 858/2026, the Region accepted the donation made by the companies:
The donation consists of a polychrome wood sculpture (oak wood with traces of paint and gilding), dated from the mid-16th century. The piece is identified as "Image of Our Lady with Child", is 114 cm tall, and is a work in the Luso-Flemish style.
According to documentation presented by the donor companies, the total acquisition value of the sculpture was €45,000.00 (forty-five thousand euros), with each company bearing 50% of this amount.
The piece, which had been published in reference art catalogues and came from the Commander Ernesto Vilhena Collection in Lisbon, will be integrated into the heritage of the Autonomous Region of Madeira and incorporated into the collection of the Quinta das Cruzes Museum. The sculpture is already in the custody of this museum, which is part of the Regional Directorate of Culture.
The decision highlights the clear public interest in accepting the donation, given the cultural, heritage, and scientific relevance of the item, which will contribute to strengthening the regional museum collection and to specialized research in art and heritage.
The Regional Government will sign a programme contract with the National Society of Fine Arts, providing funding of up to €21,000. The grant will support the production and staging of an exhibition dedicated to Lourdes de Castro, presented from 28 March to 16 May 2026.
The Regional Government Council approved five public commendations for Madeiran athletes and the sports organisations they represent, following outstanding results in badminton, canoeing and figure skating competitions.
Luís Carlos Pereira Afonso has been publicly commended for his work leading the Madeira Military Band and his contribution to regional music and culture. He stepped down as conductor and principal director on 28 September, after six years in the role.