Title: Map of Manila Bay and Environs – Observatorio de Manila, 1899
This original chromolithographed map titled “Islas Filipinas – Bahía de Manila” (Plate No. 29) was created under the supervision of Rev. José Algué, S.J., Director of the Observatorio de Manila, and published in 1899 as part of the Atlas de Filipinas. It is one of the most historically significant and visually striking maps from the series, illustrating the region surrounding Manila Bay — the heart of Spanish colonial administration and commerce in the Philippines.
The map presents the entire bay, bordered by Cavite to the south and the Pampanga River delta to the north, capturing the geography and infrastructure of the late 19th century with remarkable precision. A circular inset at the center features a detailed plan of the city of Manila, showing its walled district (Intramuros), surrounding suburbs such as Binondo, Malate, and Quiapo, as well as the Pasig River with its bridges and wharves. This inset offers an invaluable historical record of the capital at the close of Spanish rule.
The color lithography employs delicate hues of tan, green, and blue to distinguish terrain and water depth, with soundings marked along the bay’s floor to aid maritime navigation. Roads, telegraph lines, rivers, and urban areas are finely delineated, while the legend (“Signos”) at lower left identifies symbols for capitals, pueblos, military posts, telegraph stations, and hydrographic soundings.
Stamped with the brown circular seal of the “Observatorio de Manila” and embossed with the insignia of the “U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey,” this edition was included in the 1900 Atlas of the Philippine Islands, published in Washington by the U.S. Government Printing Office. It represents a pivotal moment in Philippine cartography — when Spanish scientific mapping transitioned to American survey standards.
Condition: Excellent, with bright, original color and fine detail. Minor toning to the outer edges and a crisp, well-preserved impression. Embossed and ink seals remain strong and fully legible.
Framing tips: Frame in dark walnut or mahogany with an ivory mat to highlight the soft pastel tones of the map. The circular inset of Manila serves as a natural focal point, making this piece ideal for display in a historical or nautical-themed setting.
Technique: Chromolithograph on paper Maker: Rev. José Algué, S.J., Observatorio de Manila, 1899
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.