Almeida Garrett, D. Branca ou a conquista do Algarve (1826) [Author’s translation]
Oh, the irresistible seduction of the Enchanted Mouras! They attracted men and women, young and old, anyone who passed by rivers, streams, springs, caves, rocks, castles, trees, and paths.
Trapped in an enchantment to which they had been subjected, they sought someone to break their spell. They would appear singing while combing their long hair and persuade those who couldn't resist them with promises of rich golden treasures, long life, and eternal happiness in exchange for their disenchantment.
Many of our grandparents still heard these legends, associated with the presence of the Moors in our territory, told by the older people in our villages. However, these types of stories are most likely adaptations from a more ancient culture, possibly linked to the Celtic peoples who were also here. To their seasonal celebrations related to sowing and harvesting, to the worship of the sun, water, fertility, and their courting rituals. Themes that are nowadays much faded in the festivities that have persisted, such as the summer solstice celebration converted into the night of São João (St. John), for instance.
Watercolour from the story The Overseer's Tale (detail), by Kay Nielsen (1886–1957). From the posthumous book A Thousand and One Nights, edited by Noel Daniel and published by TASCHEN. Source: npr.org.
At After Hall, we are captivated by the atmospheres of these narratives, such as those from the Arabian Nights or the tales of treasures hurriedly hidden by the Moors fleeing back to their Mourama (land or realm inhabited by the Moors). Rich stories that delight us with their games of seduction, promises of beautiful gifts, mysteries to be unravel, exquisite golden and silver objects, and scenes of celebration, romance and festivity.
We aimed to evoke this imagery through some decorative pieces that, while contemporary, could also be found among one of those yet-to-be-discovered treasures. We highlighted the seduction and sensuality that the enchanted Mouras used to attract anyone with their embellished proposals, promises, and offerings.
Mourama Tray in the Brushed Brass finish. © After Hall 2024
Inspired by these captivating tales of mystery and lore, we crafted our Mourama Trays to enchant forevermore!
With attractive and graceful shapes, it was clear what these charming pieces couldn’t be without... The gold and silver of metals that so dazzle our eyes, like the Brushed Brass, with its stimulating and alluring sheen, and the Polished Nickel, which evokes the ambiance and clarity of a moonlit night.
Available finishes: Brushed Brass (left) and Polished Nickel on the outsite with Brushed Nickel on the inside (right). © After Hall 2024
The perfect pieces for an enchanting ambiance.
With some attention, you might just hear, who knows, the chant of the Enchanted Mouras!
DISCOVER THE MOURAMA COLLECTION
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Cover photo: With Goodly Greenish Locks, All Loose Untied by Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale (1871–1945). 1913. Pencil and watercolour. Source: Obelisk Art History.