I can proudly say that I’ve seen a real-life treasure in my lifetime. The holy grail itself of Filipino art, that is! Juan Luna’s long-lost masterpiece finally found its way home to the Philippines.
The “Hymen, oh Hyménée!” or “Roman Wedding” is called the holy grail of Filipino art by art collectors. This is the work that put Luna’s name on the map. But “Roman Wedding” must have enjoyed its “honeymoon” so much, it chose to stay away from the public eye for 132 years.
Just kidding! It was last seen in Paris back at the iconic Universal Exposition. Now that it’s back home, it really feels so good a national treasure securely reposes right in our midst and not in some distant country. Celebrating it could not be timelier as we commemorate the 125th anniversary of our independence as a nation.
With everyone dressed in Filipiniana cocktail, Manila’s party people and culture vultures came in full force to admire single-work exhibition at Ayala Museum entitled Splendor: Juan Luna, Painter as Hero. The multimedia exhibition highlighted this masterpiece flawlessly, showcasing the world of 1889, the history surrounding it and its genius artist. No amount of the delicious spirits and boozy concoctions served before our viewing could make us forget seeing the“Hymen, oh Hyménée!” It was breathtaking and truly worth the wait.
Thanks to Ayala Museum, with the cooperation of León Gallery and the amazing team behind this. This proves once again the eminent position of Jaime Ponce de Leon in our exclusive list of art movers. It’s really worth seeing this Luna masterpiece at least once in every Filipino’s lifetime.
The exhibit, which opened for free last 12 June, continues until 31 December. So, don’t worry if you missed the first day. Just don’t forget, you have this rare chance to see this important artifact of Filipino creativity at its highest. Mabuhay!
