Mantons–those dainty embroidered silk shawls from China–found their way into the hands of sixteenth-century Filipinos through the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade. A Spanish colony back then, the Philippines was the port of call for many galleons that sailed to and from Mexico.

Aside from spices, porcelain, and ivory, silk shawls–which would later be known as Manton de Manila–were among the coveted merchandise that passed the Manila-Acapulco route. The Spanish adapted these shawls as part of their fashion and costumes for dance and music. The manton would also strongly influence Philippine embroidery.

“Draped in Silk: The Journey of the Manton de Manila,” an ongoing exhibit at the Yuchengco Museum, unravels stories of these captivating shawls while showcasing modern illustrations, paintings, photography, decor, couture, and installations that were inspired by the Manton de Manila. Exhibit runs until December 29.

Supplementing the manton exhibit, Yuchengco Museumand the Spanish Embassy are running a series of lectures about antique maps, wherein historical buffs and antique map enthusiasts will get to see early maps of the Philippines (July 4 with Dr. Leovino Garcia), learn more about the galleon trade (July 11 withDr. Benito Legarda, Jr.), find out what Intramuros was like in 1717 (July 18 with  Dr. Jaime Laya), and learn more about Jesuit writer and missionary Fr. Pedro Murillo Velarde (July 25 with Alberto Montilla). The lectures cost P100 and are held Saturdays, 3: 30 p.m. at the Yuchengco Museum Masters Gallery.

Yuchengco Museum is located at the ground floor, RCBC Plaza, corner Ayala and Gil Puyat Avenues in Makati City. Gallery hours are Mondays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission prices are P100 for adults, P50 for students 15 years and above, and P25 for children and senior citizens. For inquiries, call (+632) 889 1234.