Omitted link – Gender differentiation in Portuguese archaeological contexts, through elements of adornment (16th-18th centuries)

This work aims to discuss gender differentiation in Portuguese post-medieval contexts dated 16th-18th century, a period known for the increase of transatlantic connections between Portugal and the world, through elements of adornment such as rings, bracelets, brooches, necklaces, tiaras, among many others. Women were often associated with the consumption of luxury goods and frivolities, however, both males and females were holders and buyers of these elements, many times as a demonstration of economic power, political influence, and symbolic meanings. The discovery of these objects in archaeological contexts permits a debate about the need for demonstration, possession, and symbolic uses for these objects of a personal nature, which exalt beauty and social status both in life and in death. However, these elements have also become a reflection of art, wealth, capital investment, medicine, and in some cases repositories of memories for events, individualities, or collective groups.