Hand-colored copper engraved print of Manila by Alain Mallet, 1683

This hand-colored copper engraved print (20x13cm) of Manila from the Archives of the Intramuros Administration is a page from Alain Manesson Mallet’s book Description de I’Univers (1683). 

Mallet’s book covers a wide range of topics, including star charts for maritime navigation, maps of the ancient and modern world, and synopses of  customs, religions and governments of nations. The romanticized depiction of the Walled City on top of a hill brings forth a question:  Did the author actually visit Manila or not? #WeAreIntramuros

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