E ao Tom Dela

E ao Tom Dela is a bronze sculpture installed in the city of Tondela, inspired by the legend that explains the origin of the city's name. According to local tradition, a woman watched for the approach of the Moors from an elevated position and, upon spotting them, sounded a horn to warn the population. “At her signal”, the inhabitants would gather to defend the settlement, giving rise to the place name Tondela.

The artwork represents this legendary female figure, immortalising one of the most emblematic elements of the municipality’s intangible heritage and historical identity. Its presence in the public space reinforces the connection between collective memory, local culture, and monumental sculpture.

Mão de Fogo was responsible for the technical execution of the bronze casting process, transforming the original model into a permanent work intended for outdoor installation. The work included the various stages of production, from casting preparation to finishing and final patination.

The translation of the sculpture into bronze ensured durability and resistance to environmental conditions while preserving the formal details and expressive qualities of the original composition. The work contributes to the promotion of Tondela’s cultural heritage and to the dissemination of one of its most cherished local traditions.

This project demonstrates Mão de Fogo’s experience in the production of public and commemorative sculpture, associated with the preservation and interpretation of historical narratives and local identities.

Mão de Fogo — artistic bronze casting for monuments, public sculpture, and the enhancement of cultural heritage.