The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) is pleased to offer "Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas," Singapore's first large-scale investigation of historical commercial links between Mexico and the Philippines. This enthralling exhibition, which runs from November 16, 2023 to March 17, 2024, delves into the 16th to the 20th centuries, displaying over 140 magnificent pieces that reveal the complicated web of cultural and creative interchange that spans the Pacific.
The exhibition allows visitors to learn about the galleon trade's impact on world events, illustrating how Manila served as a major hub for the movement of people, products, and ideas. Objects of value are on display, ranging from rare silverware and silks to Chinese porcelain and Japanese lacquerware, many of which are being seen in Singapore for the first time. The exhibition acts as a cultural bridge, showcasing artefacts on loan from famous international partners and working closely with twenty partners from the Latino and Filipino communities, both locally and internationally.
Mr. Kennie Ting, Director of the ACM and the Peranakan Museum, expresses his excitement, noting, "Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas furthers our exploration of the idea of a global Southeast Asia that was at the very heart of world trade." He emphasises the exhibition's significance in focusing light on Manila's critical role as an entrepot and important hub in the global trading network.
Explore the roots of chocolate, silver, and saints during the galleon trade era, which lasted from 1565 to 1815. The museum teaches visitors about the historical significance of silver as the first global currency, mined in the Americas and wanted in China, ultimately shaping today's currencies such as the Straits dollar and the US dollar.
"Manila Galleon" is a rich tapestry of cross-cultural artistic interactions, comprising export porcelain, portable furniture, paintings, and textiles from around the world. The third section looks at how the galleon trade influenced artistic expression in apparel, textiles, and accessories long into the nineteenth century. The mantónes de Manila, embroidered silk shawls that have left an unmistakable impression on Spanish, Philippine, and Spanish American fashion, are amongst the highlights.
Through reconstructed bazaars and symbolic artworks, the show goes outside the museum's boundaries, immersing visitors in the cultural variety of Mexican, Filipino, and other groups. "Manila Galleon" provides an enriching experience for people of all ages, with digital and on-site programmes, curator visits, and weekend festivities to complement it. The exhibition promises to be a cultural feast, with everything from food and dance to creative activities.
In collaboration with Dialogue in the Dark Singapore, the museum has arranged special touch tours for people with vision impairment in January. In addition, a symposium, conference, and publication will be held in conjunction with the special exhibition in the coming year.
ACM has partnered with a number of organisations to provide promotions that expand the exhibition experience beyond the museum.
a. 1 Empress Pl, Singapore 179555
You May Also Like
Embark on a Cycling Adventure: 'Tour De Resplendent' Unveiled by Resplendent Ceylon and Across Ceylon
