The Spoliarium at the NM

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The Spoliarium at the National Museum

It is huge and still in good condition given that it was made in 1884, and what is more delightful is that we can actually come closer to this national treasure at the National Museum. Being able to get close to the Spoliarium is a warm welcome to every Filipino who has the heart and interest to see for real a national patrimony. 

On the left side are the spectators who wanted to loot the dead gladiators while on the center, the dead gladiators are pulled up like animals devoid of human dignity and on the right side, a woman is bent and evidently crying over a dead gladiator. A man holding a lamp is also seen on the background. The gladiator represents the Philippines while the looters are those who deny freedom to our country. The woman represents our mother country while the man represents our heroes' enlightenment and seeking for freedom.   

Yes, the subject Spoliarium is reflective of a Spanish culture since it is the basement where the dead bodies of gladiators are sent away and also where people are waiting to loot them, but the figurative meaning of this painting continues to challenge every Filipino on how he fights for the preservation of our own culture and society. 

What immediately came to my mind was, "Are we to allow the culture of violence take over us?"      

When Juan Luna won the the grand prix through this painting in 1884, he gained the respect and admiration of the other nationals and he placed the talent and knowledge of the Filipinos above the bar. 

I left with fervent desire that we still have what Juan Luna gained by winning the Spoliarium, respect of the other nations and democratic freedom for the Filipinos.   





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