WITH AN EARLY IMAGE OF MANILA’S PUENTE GRANDE
“A Plan of the Bay of Manila” and “A Plan of the Harbour of Acapulco on the Coast of Mexico in ye South Sea” and “A view 2 of Ladrone Islands”. Copper engraving made by Richard William Seale for Lord Anson’s famous circumnavigation of the world printed in 1748. Coloured by a later hand. Size (overall): approx 25 x 38.5 cm
This captivating map offers a glimpse into the bustling maritime world of the 18th century, showcasing key locations in the Manila Galleon Trade. Central to this era of exploration and commerce are the detailed plans of Manila Bay and the Harbour of Acapulco, accompanied by a profile view of the Ladrone Islands (today’s Marina Islands).
The intricately drawn map of Manila Bay reveals not just the natural contours of the harbour but also essential navigational details, such as anchorage points and soundings. It provides a window into the strategic significance of Manila as a vital hub in the trade routes between Asia and the Americas.
Of particular historical interest is the depiction of the Puente Grande, the first bridge in Manila, built between 1626 and its opening in 1630. This bridge connected the bustling district of Binondo with the capital, serving as a crucial artery for trade and daily life.
Meanwhile, the map of Acapulco, situated on the west coast of Mexico, illustrates another critical point in the trans-Pacific trade. In the 18th century, Acapulco emerged as a vital hub in the Manila Galleon Trade, linking the Spanish Empire across the Pacific. This map reveals the strategic contours of its deep harbour, a sanctuary for galleons after completing their long voyages across the ocean. Each arrival was a grand event, with merchants and traders eagerly gathering to exchange silver for the exotic goods of the East.
These interactions not only fuelled commerce but also nurtured a rich cultural exchange, weaving together diverse traditions and ideas. Amidst this backdrop, the map echoes the daring exploits of Admiral George Anson, who famously pursued a Spanish treasure galleon from Manila to Acapulco, capturing it in a chance meeting. The haul was so vast that it required 32 wagons to transport the silver to the Tower of London, underscoring the immense wealth that flowed through these waters.
Price: 450,-
