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This Chinese porcelain pot was probably originally made for pouring coffee, then repurposed in Mexico as a chocolate pot.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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Launching in January 2024 

Launching in 2024, look out for special touch tours of the Manila Galleon: From Asia to the Americas special exhibition. Suitable for persons with visual impairment, the tours will make use of tactile boards and sensory materials to relay the story of the Manila galleon trade. 

Presented in partnership with Dialogue in the Dark Singapore. 

Stay tuned for more details.

24–25 February 2024 | 11am–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. Presented in conjunction with ACM Adventures.

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. 

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 (13 December)