Vallo, Jolaine Ashley T. Social Science I2014 - 73048 Ms. MJ Louise A. Bolunia

TAKE HOME EXAM(ON THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES)

1. Admire the building itself. Why should it be admired in the first place?It is amazing how a museum has many stories to tell about the history, culture, traditions, and a lot more, of the Filipino people. The building of the National Museum of the Philippines itself, is an admirable edifice for it houses bits and pieces of our past which brings about a deeper understanding of society in general. The facade of the building was composed of Corinthian columns and designs that were Renaissance inspired- all of which were enough to put me in a state of awe and wonder. Entirely, the building is to be admired because it is a vital part of our cultural heritage which is crucial in shaping society.

2. a. What are the names of the buildings? What were their former names? What are their historical/social/cultural relevance?

The National Museum of Fine Arts (formerly called National Art Gallery) and the National Museum of Anthropology (formerly called Museum of the Filipino People) were the names of the buildings composing the National Museum. Both have its own historical significance- the building of the National Museum of Fine Arts used to be the old congress building and public library for Manila; the National Museum of Anthropology building was formerly housed by the Department of Finance. Because the institution conserves such artifacts and specimens, both buildings are of great social and cultural importance because they enable the people to learn and enjoy in a new and exciting environment. Culturally and socially, the museums enrich our rapport by fostering a deeper understanding on the various cultures of our society.

1. Name at least 3 galleries that strike you the most in the museum nearer Rizal Park. Choose 1 out of these 3 galleries. Why did you choose it?

The galleries in the Museum of Anthropology that striked me the most were: a. Kaban ng Lahi Archaeological Treasures at the Don Vicente Madrigal Galleryb. Hibla ng Lahing Filipino, The Artistry of Philippine Textiles Galleryc. The Origin (Pinagmulan) at the Cabinet Ladies Foundation Gallery

Of the three galleries, I chose the Origins exhibit at the Cabinet Ladies Foundation Gallery because of the striking artifacts and information it featured on the origins of the Philippine Islands and the Filipino nation. The gallery highlighted the four periods of Philippine pre-history which were the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Metal, and Ceramic Ages. I loved how this gallery showed gradual improvements in each timeline. Moreover, it provided me a clearer understanding on the evolution of tools man created.

2. Name at least 5 artifacts that you can find in that particular gallery. What are their names, place of origin, material(s) used and the function(s). What is/are their social/cultural relevance? Make a table to simplify the presentation.

Name Place of Origin Material/s Used Function/s Relevance

Copper Button(Butones na

Tanso)

Tagbac, Lubang Island,

Occidental Mindoro San

Jose Wrecksite

copper It can be used to secure clothing

and other textiles.

The evolution of clothing began and improved.

Metal(Tanso)

Tagbac, Lubang Island,

Occidental Mindoro San

Jose Wrecksite

metal It is used as a primary material in tool making.

Our ancestors were able to

produce tools and weapons

out of it.

3. One of the most represented aspect of culture in the galleries is death. How is it represented in the various galleries? Name at least 5 representations done (either the material used or the process or activity carried out). In most of the galleries paintings, sculptures, artifacts, and specimens, death was implicitly featured. Each gallery represented it in their own creative way through:

a. Taxidermy of animals such as tarsiers, lemurs, snakes, butterflies and locusts; b. Paintings such as the Spoliarium by Juan Luna, among others;c. Sculptures such as A Plea for Freedom from Fear by Fermin Gomez and Mothers

Revenge by Jose Rizald. The use of metal and wood as seen in the Bataan Death Marcher of Gene Cabrerae. Artifacts such as the burial jars found in Ayub Cave Saranggani, now featured in the

Kaban ng Lahi gallery. Death was implicitly featured, perhaps, to enable the viewers to connect emotionally and psychologically with the objects, and to avoid a monotonous rhythm throughout the galleries.

BONUS: YEHEY MAAM WE FOUND YOUR PICTURE!!!