Object size: 175.0 x 190.0 x 80.0 cm
This is a contemporary model of a fully fitted and rigged Manila galleon with 70 cannons, built on a scale of 1:32. It is modelled with full details, based on construction plans found in 18th century manuscripts. The Manila galleons were large and heavily armed sailing vessels that sailed the maritime trade route between Manila, in the Philippines, and Acapulco, in New Spain (present-day Mexico) during the Spanish colonial period. They had high forecastles and stern castles that provided extra space for transporting a diverse range of valuable commodities, such as silk, porcelain, spices, precious metals, silver, and tobacco. The trade route fostered cultural exchange between the East and the West and facilitated the spread of Asian goods, technologies, and ideas to the Americas, while introducing European goods and influences to Asian markets.
