Historic Paintings of the Basi Revolt of 1807 by Esteban Villanueva

Historic Paintings of the Basi Revolt of 1807 by Esteban Villanueva

Dr Abe V Rotor 

Living with Nature - School on Blog

 The Basi Revolt took place in the Ilocos Region to protest Wine Monopoly imposed by the Spanish government upon the makers of this prized wine once exported through the Galleon Trade plying Ciudad Fernandina (now Vigan City) and Europe via Acapulco, Mexico (1565-1815). 

 Scores of Spanish soldiers and Filipinos were killed in a series of battles, but the revolt ended on September 29, 1807 with the capture of its brave leaders. Fourteen big oil paintings depicting the Basi Revolt in series are displayed at the Vigan Ayala Museum located in the original residence of Filipino martyr, Fr. Jose Burgos. 

The painter, Don Esteban Villanueva was an eyewitness of this historic event. Today, the Basi Revolt lives on with the fine taste and tradition of this unique product standing among the best wines of the world.

 

Acknowledgment: Vigan Ayala Museum, National Museum, Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur, Metro Vigan city government,  National Historical Institute.  This article is a tribute to Don Esteban Villanueva, and to the the Basi industry of the Ilocos region.

 Lesson on former Paaralang Bayan sa Himpapawid (People's School-on-Air) with Ms Melly C Tenorio 738 DZRB AM, [www.pbs.gov.ph] 8-9 evening class Monday to Friday