Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas

Special Exhibition

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Manila Galleon explores a trade that connected Asia to the Americas and Europe. For centuries, Spanish ships laden with porcelain, silk, spices, and other goods sailed annually across the Pacific from Manila to Acapulco, returning with millions of pieces of silver.

Featuring over 140 extraordinary works of art from the 16th to 20th century, the exhibition reveals how people, goods, and ideas circulating through the global port cities of Manila and Mexico City created a distinctive shared cultural and artistic heritage. Looking at Manila as a precursor of Singapore, it reflects the unique qualities of Singapore's own blended society and the important role port cities have played in artistic and cultural exchanges that shaped the world.

Beyond the Museum: Culinary Voyages!

Extending the exhibition experience beyond the museum, ACM has collaborated with various food and beverage partners serving Mexican, Filipino, Spanish cuisine. Patrons of participating partners can present their receipt at the ACM Visitor Services Counter to get 10% off admission to ACM’s special exhibition Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas. 

Partners include Bar SpectreEmpress, Esquina, Kubo Woodfired Kitchen, Las Americas, Luci’s Kitchen, Prive@ACM, and Tamales Mexicanos en Singapur.


In addition, ACM special exhibition visitors can present their ACM All-Access admission ticket to enjoy the following:

- A special menu at Bar Spectre
- A special menu item, Tuna Escabeche, at Esquina
- 10% off with $30 minimum spend at Luci’s Kitchen

These promotions are valid till 17 March.

16 November 2023 – 17 March 2024
Daily - 10am - 7pm
Fridays - 10am - 9pm

Special Exhibitions Gallery, Level 2
Shaw Foyer, Level 2 
Contemporary Gallery, Level 1

Ticketed
16 November 2023 – 17 March 2024
Daily - 10am - 7pm
Fridays - 10am - 9pm

Special Exhibitions Gallery, Level 2
Shaw Foyer, Level 2 
Contemporary Gallery, Level 1

Ticketed

Manila Galleon explores a trade that connected Asia to the Americas and Europe. For centuries, Spanish ships laden with porcelain, silk, spices, and other goods sailed annually across the Pacific from Manila to Acapulco, returning with millions of pieces of silver.

Featuring over 140 extraordinary works of art from the 16th to 20th century, the exhibition reveals how people, goods, and ideas circulating through the global port cities of Manila and Mexico City created a distinctive shared cultural and artistic heritage. Looking at Manila as a precursor of Singapore, it reflects the unique qualities of Singapore's own blended society and the important role port cities have played in artistic and cultural exchanges that shaped the world.

Beyond the Museum: Culinary Voyages!

Extending the exhibition experience beyond the museum, ACM has collaborated with various food and beverage partners serving Mexican, Filipino, Spanish cuisine. Patrons of participating partners can present their receipt at the ACM Visitor Services Counter to get 10% off admission to ACM’s special exhibition Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas. 

Partners include Bar SpectreEmpress, Esquina, Kubo Woodfired Kitchen, Las Americas, Luci’s Kitchen, Prive@ACM, and Tamales Mexicanos en Singapur.


In addition, ACM special exhibition visitors can present their ACM All-Access admission ticket to enjoy the following:

- A special menu at Bar Spectre
- A special menu item, Tuna Escabeche, at Esquina
- 10% off with $30 minimum spend at Luci’s Kitchen

These promotions are valid till 17 March.

Exhibition Highlights

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Chocolate Pot

China, Jingdezhen, late 18th century
Porcelain, wood, rattan

This Chinese porcelain pot was probably originally made for pouring coffee, then repurposed in Mexico as a chocolate pot. The metal handle, wrapped with rattan for insulation, replaced the lost porcelain one. The hole in the lid was also added later to allow for insertion of a stirring rod. When twirled rapidly between one’s palms, the rod mixes the chocolate and raises the desired froth.

Asian Civilisations Museum
2022-00862

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Chocolate Pot

China, Jingdezhen, late 18th century
Porcelain, wood, rattan

This Chinese porcelain pot was probably originally made for pouring coffee, then repurposed in Mexico as a chocolate pot. The metal handle, wrapped with rattan for insulation, replaced the lost porcelain one. The hole in the lid was also added later to allow for insertion of a stirring rod. When twirled rapidly between one’s palms, the rod mixes the chocolate and raises the desired froth.

Asian Civilisations Museum
2022-00862

John the Evangelist

Mexico, 17th century
Feather mosaic and paper on copper

John the Evangelist is shown here holding a chalice. According to legend, he was given a cup of poisoned wine but was able to drink it without harm. The scene symbolises Christian faith prevailing over death. Feather mosaics of Christian images began to be made in Mexico in the 16th century. In the following century, smaller feather paintings became popular. Artists added gilded or painted paper to enhance their work, and sometimes included simple landscapes.

Daniel Leibsohn Collection

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John the Evangelist

Mexico, 17th century
Feather mosaic and paper on copper

John the Evangelist is shown here holding a chalice. According to legend, he was given a cup of poisoned wine but was able to drink it without harm. The scene symbolises Christian faith prevailing over death. Feather mosaics of Christian images began to be made in Mexico in the 16th century. In the following century, smaller feather paintings became popular. Artists added gilded or painted paper to enhance their work, and sometimes included simple landscapes.

Daniel Leibsohn Collection

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Casket

Casket

Philippines, Manila, 17th century

Silver, semi-precious stones

 

This dome-shaped casket was used to store the Eucharist (consecrated host) during the rite of Holy Communion. The casket was originally decorated with precious gems, some of which have been lost. Chinese and Filipino silversmiths established workshops in the towns of Binondo, Tondo, Quiapo, and Santa Cruz in the 17th century. They were guided by missionaries, who gave them liturgical paraphernalia from Europe and the Americas to use as models. They created new, hybrid artworks by incorporating their own designs, seen here in stylised Chinese waves that appear around the edges of the casket.

 

San Agustin Museum, Manila

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Casket

Casket

Philippines, Manila, 17th century

Silver, semi-precious stones

 

This dome-shaped casket was used to store the Eucharist (consecrated host) during the rite of Holy Communion. The casket was originally decorated with precious gems, some of which have been lost. Chinese and Filipino silversmiths established workshops in the towns of Binondo, Tondo, Quiapo, and Santa Cruz in the 17th century. They were guided by missionaries, who gave them liturgical paraphernalia from Europe and the Americas to use as models. They created new, hybrid artworks by incorporating their own designs, seen here in stylised Chinese waves that appear around the edges of the casket.

 

San Agustin Museum, Manila

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Journeys

Contemporary Gallery, Level 1

Journeys is a testament to the historical significance of the Manila galleon trade, which connected Asia to the Americas and Europe from 1565 to 1815. The installation features miniature boats laden with goods exchanged as part of the trade, symbolising the connections between distant lands.

This installation was organised by ACM in partnership with Lidia Riveros, an independent curator who specialises in Mexican culture and folk arts.


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Journeys

Contemporary Gallery, Level 1

Journeys is a testament to the historical significance of the Manila galleon trade, which connected Asia to the Americas and Europe from 1565 to 1815. The installation features miniature boats laden with goods exchanged as part of the trade, symbolising the connections between distant lands.

This installation was organised by ACM in partnership with Lidia Riveros, an independent curator who specialises in Mexican culture and folk arts.


Tree of Life

Foyer, Level 2

The Tree of life is an ancient symbol used by cultures around the world. It can be used to represent a family tree, serving as a visual representation of the connections and relationships between ancestors, parents and descendants.

This installation was organised by ACM in partnership with Lidia Riveros, an independent curator who specialises in Mexican culture and folk arts.

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Tree of Life

Foyer, Level 2

The Tree of life is an ancient symbol used by cultures around the world. It can be used to represent a family tree, serving as a visual representation of the connections and relationships between ancestors, parents and descendants.

This installation was organised by ACM in partnership with Lidia Riveros, an independent curator who specialises in Mexican culture and folk arts.

In-gallery Activities

Digital and Family-friendly Activities

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Adventures with Solo: A Digital Experience

Available onsite | Free
Admission to the special exhibition is required to enjoy this digital trail

Set off on a fun adventure with our very special guide – Solo! Follow Solo around the museum using our digital activity trail and play games to win prizes*. This educational digital trail includes fun facts and mini games related to the Manila Galleon exhibition.

Suitable for ages 7 and up.

*While supplies last.

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Adventures with Solo: A Digital Experience

Available onsite | Free
Admission to the special exhibition is required to enjoy this digital trail

Set off on a fun adventure with our very special guide – Solo! Follow Solo around the museum using our digital activity trail and play games to win prizes*. This educational digital trail includes fun facts and mini games related to the Manila Galleon exhibition.

Suitable for ages 7 and up.

*While supplies last.

Enter the Galleon: A Digital Interactive

Special Exhibitions Gallery, Level 2 | Free
Admission to the special exhibition is required to enjoy this digital interactive

All aboard! Discover life on board the galleon through this fun-filled digital interactive located within our Special Exhibitions Gallery. Explore the ship’s quarters, meet the crew, and learn about life at sea through educational info points and mini games.

Suitable for ages 7 and up.

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Enter the Galleon: A Digital Interactive

Special Exhibitions Gallery, Level 2 | Free
Admission to the special exhibition is required to enjoy this digital interactive

All aboard! Discover life on board the galleon through this fun-filled digital interactive located within our Special Exhibitions Gallery. Explore the ship’s quarters, meet the crew, and learn about life at sea through educational info points and mini games.

Suitable for ages 7 and up.

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Sailing with Solo: Activity Trail Booklet

Available onsite | Free
Admission to the special exhibition is required to enjoy this trail booklet

Pick up a free activity trail booklet to guide you during your visit to the Manila Galleon exhibition. Designed for our younger explorers, this booklet contains simple puzzles and activities to keep them engaged and entertained! This activity booklet serves as a companion to Adventures with Solo: A Digital Experience.

Suitable for ages 5 and up.

 

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Sailing with Solo: Activity Trail Booklet

Available onsite | Free
Admission to the special exhibition is required to enjoy this trail booklet

Pick up a free activity trail booklet to guide you during your visit to the Manila Galleon exhibition. Designed for our younger explorers, this booklet contains simple puzzles and activities to keep them engaged and entertained! This activity booklet serves as a companion to Adventures with Solo: A Digital Experience.

Suitable for ages 5 and up.

 

Reading and Crafting Corner

Foyer, Level 2 | Free

Immerse yourself in a good book and go on a journey to the Philippines and the Americas. Our selection of books includes folk tales, adventure, exploration, history, and food. Discover how the Manila galleons influenced the cultures of Asia and the Americas.

After reading some books, grab some coloured pencils and complete a Tree of Life colouring sheet.

Supported by National Library Board.

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Reading and Crafting Corner

Foyer, Level 2 | Free

Immerse yourself in a good book and go on a journey to the Philippines and the Americas. Our selection of books includes folk tales, adventure, exploration, history, and food. Discover how the Manila galleons influenced the cultures of Asia and the Americas.

After reading some books, grab some coloured pencils and complete a Tree of Life colouring sheet.

Supported by National Library Board.

Programmes

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Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas Opening Weekend

18–19 November 2023 | 11am–5pm
Free admission to programmes

Experience the cultures and crafts of the Philippines and Mexico through our opening weekend programmes! Learn about the intricacies of paper craft with a Mexican master artist, listen to folk stories from the Philippines, and go on an exciting digital adventure through the exhibition with our activity trail, with prizes to be won. Then, relax with a good book and a craft activity at our Reading and Crafting Corner.

Learn more

 

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Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas Opening Weekend

18–19 November 2023 | 11am–5pm
Free admission to programmes

Experience the cultures and crafts of the Philippines and Mexico through our opening weekend programmes! Learn about the intricacies of paper craft with a Mexican master artist, listen to folk stories from the Philippines, and go on an exciting digital adventure through the exhibition with our activity trail, with prizes to be won. Then, relax with a good book and a craft activity at our Reading and Crafting Corner.

Learn more

 

World on a Plate: Presented by Crossing Cultures X Manila Galleon

1–3 December 2023 | 4–10pm
Free admission to most programmes

Discover the multicultural influences that have led to the creation of iconic Asian dishes and find out where your favourite foods come from. Delve into cross-cultural flavours at our Food Fiesta, accompanied by music and dance from Asia and the Americas. Join expert chefs and food historians as they take you on a culinary journey that started with the Manila galleons. Then, dance away to the sound of salsa to end the night!

Stay tuned for more details.

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World on a Plate: Presented by Crossing Cultures X Manila Galleon

1–3 December 2023 | 4–10pm
Free admission to most programmes

Discover the multicultural influences that have led to the creation of iconic Asian dishes and find out where your favourite foods come from. Delve into cross-cultural flavours at our Food Fiesta, accompanied by music and dance from Asia and the Americas. Join expert chefs and food historians as they take you on a culinary journey that started with the Manila galleons. Then, dance away to the sound of salsa to end the night!

Stay tuned for more details.

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Touch Tours for Persons with Visual Impairment

January to March 2024

 

Suitable for persons with visual impairment, join in our special exhibition touch tours which will make use of fascinating stories, tactile boards, and sensory materials to relay the story of the Manila galleon trade. 


Presented in partnership with Dialogue in the Dark Singapore. 

 

To book an ad-hoc tour, connect with us at nhb_acm_edu@nhb.gov.sg. 

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Touch Tours for Persons with Visual Impairment

January to March 2024

 

Suitable for persons with visual impairment, join in our special exhibition touch tours which will make use of fascinating stories, tactile boards, and sensory materials to relay the story of the Manila galleon trade. 


Presented in partnership with Dialogue in the Dark Singapore. 

 

To book an ad-hoc tour, connect with us at nhb_acm_edu@nhb.gov.sg. 

Let’s Fiesta! Manila Galleon Weekend Festival

24–25 February 2024 | 10am–5pm 

Free admission to most programmes

 

Get festive at ACM! Dive into food and fun as we go on a journey from Manila to Mexico and beyond. Take part in a colourful celebration filled with music and dance, immerse yourself in stories of adventure, try your hand at traditional crafts, and much more. 

 

Enjoy discounted admission to the special exhibition during programme hours ($10 for Singapore citizens/PR; $20 for foreign residents/tourists).

 

Presented in conjunction with ACM Adventures.

 

Programme details here.

 

About ACM Adventures

Join us at ACM Adventures on the last Sunday of every month! Enjoy a range of fun, hands-on activities for children, inspired by objects in our galleries. 

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Let’s Fiesta! Manila Galleon Weekend Festival

24–25 February 2024 | 10am–5pm 

Free admission to most programmes

 

Get festive at ACM! Dive into food and fun as we go on a journey from Manila to Mexico and beyond. Take part in a colourful celebration filled with music and dance, immerse yourself in stories of adventure, try your hand at traditional crafts, and much more. 

 

Enjoy discounted admission to the special exhibition during programme hours ($10 for Singapore citizens/PR; $20 for foreign residents/tourists).

 

Presented in conjunction with ACM Adventures.

 

Programme details here.

 

About ACM Adventures

Join us at ACM Adventures on the last Sunday of every month! Enjoy a range of fun, hands-on activities for children, inspired by objects in our galleries. 

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Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas Curator Tours

13 December 2023, 17 January,

21 February, and 15 March 2024

7–8.30pm | $30 per participant

 

Join principal curator Clement Onn for exclusive tours of the Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas special exhibition. Discover fascinating facts about the works on display and get behind-the-scenes insights into the curation of the exhibition. 

 

Register here (15 March)

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Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas Curator Tours

13 December 2023, 17 January,

21 February, and 15 March 2024

7–8.30pm | $30 per participant

 

Join principal curator Clement Onn for exclusive tours of the Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas special exhibition. Discover fascinating facts about the works on display and get behind-the-scenes insights into the curation of the exhibition. 

 

Register here (15 March)

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