Rare Old Map of the Philippines, 1744: Reduced Version of 1734 Murillo Velarde Chart
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Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored in London • Made in the EU
Restored from the original 1744 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Read the story behind this map
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Gift message & custom finish
If you want to add a gift message, or a finish (jigsaw, aluminium board, etc.) that is not available here, please request it in the "order note" when you check out.
Every order is custom made, so if you need the size adjusted slightly, or printed on an unusual material, just let us know. We've done thousands of custom orders over the years, so there's (almost) nothing we can't manage.
You can also contact us before you order, if you prefer!
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The "Mapa de Las Yslas Philipinas," created in 1744 by Pedro Murillo Velarde and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay, is a masterful...
Continue readingThe "Mapa de Las Yslas Philipinas," created in 1744 by Pedro Murillo Velarde and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay, is a masterful representation of the Philippine archipelago. This map is a significant historical artifact, reflecting a decade of exploration and development since the original 1734 wall map. Murillo Velarde, a Jesuit priest and cartographer, collaborated with Bagay, a Filipino engraver, to produce this detailed and scientifically accurate depiction. Their work stands as a testament to the Spanish-Philippine collaboration during the 18th century, offering a glimpse into the era's cartographic advancements.
The map meticulously covers the entire Philippine archipelago, extending from the northern reaches of Luzon to the southern island of Mindanao, and westward to Palawan. It also includes parts of nearby Borneo, visible in the lower left corner. This comprehensive coverage showcases the diverse geography of the region, from its numerous islands and intricate coastlines to its mountain ranges and bodies of water. The Sulu Sea, prominently featured, serves as a backdrop for one of the map's most striking vignettes, adding both artistic and geographical value.
One of the most captivating aspects of this map is its inclusion of religious and cultural elements. In the Sulu Sea, Saint Francis Xavier is depicted traveling on a scalloped water-chariot, propelled by cherub-like mer-creatures. This illustration humorously includes a tiny crab returning the saint’s lost crucifix, a reference to an anecdote in his hagiography. Additionally, Magellan's flagship, the carrack "Nao Victoria," is illustrated just beneath the saint, symbolizing the historical significance of the first circumnavigation of the globe and its connection to the Philippines.
The upper right corner of the map features a decorative cartouche dominated by a lion holding a banner, flanked by figures representing various cultures. On the left, a berobed Chinese figure with a parasol and an Aeta with a bow and arrow are depicted, while on the right, a Cimarrón archer and a Moro with a kalasag (shield) and spear stand guard. This cartouche is surmounted by the Dos Mundos, symbolizing the global reach of the Spanish empire. Such artistic details not only enhance the map's visual appeal but also underscore the cultural diversity and historical context of the region.
This map is not only a geographical document but also a historical narrative, reflecting the dynamic interplay of exploration, trade, and cultural exchange in the 18th century. The inclusion of a large ship sailing towards the Philippines, likely representing the trans-Pacific Manila galleon trade, highlights the global connections facilitated by these islands. As a source map for many subsequent maps of the Philippines, this work by Murillo Velarde and Bagay remains an invaluable resource for understanding the historical and geographical evolution of the archipelago.
Cities and towns on this map
- Manila
- Cebu
- Zamboanga
- Vigan
- Cavite
- Bacolod
- Iloilo
- Davao
- Tacloban
- Legazpi
- Naga
- Dumaguete
- Butuan
- Tarlac
- San Fernando
- Laoag
- Lucena
- Cabanatuan
- Calapan
- Sorsogon
- Masbate
- Baguio
- Puerto Princesa
- Tagbilaran
- Ormoc
- Roxas
- Pagadian
- Dipolog
- Basilan
- Catbalogan
- Surigao
- Santiago
- Gapan
- Ligao
- Sagay
- Baybay
- Tandag
- Malaybalay
- Bontoc
- San Jose
- Tabaco
- Iriga
- Bangued
- Bongao
- Borongan
- Kabankalan
- Mati
- Tagum
- Panabo
- Tuguegarao
- Bais
- Catarman
- Calbayog
- Bayugan
- Gingoog
- Oroquieta
- Marawi
- Kidapawan
- Koronadal
- General Santos
- Cotabato
- Iligan
- Ozamiz
- Tangub
- Valencia
- Cagayan de Oro
- Tagoloan
- El Salvador
- Cabadbaran
- San Francisco
- Bislig
- Samal
- Digos
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Illustrations:
- Saint Francis Xavier on a scalloped water-chariot with cherub-like mer-creatures.
- Magellan's flagship, the carrack "Nao Victoria."
- A large ship, likely representing the Manila galleon trade, east of Luzon.
- Bodies of water:
- Sulu Sea
- Other notable features:
- Decorative cartouche in the upper right corner with a lion, various cultural figures, and the Dos Mundos.
Historical and design context
- Creation date: 1744
- Mapmakers/Publishers: Pedro Murillo Velarde and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay
- Context about the mapmakers: Pedro Murillo Velarde was a Jesuit priest and cartographer, and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay was a Filipino engraver. This collaboration is a significant example of Spanish-Philippine cooperation in the 18th century.
- Historical significance:
- This map is the first edition of Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay’s reduction of the 1734 Murillo Velarde wall map of the Philippines.
- It is considered one of the most important productions in the history of Philippine printing.
- It is the second major map of the Philippines published in the Philippines, reflecting 10 years of discovery and development.
- It served as the source map for most subsequent maps of the Philippines well into the early 19th century.
- Themes and topics:
- Political and physical geography: The map provides detailed political and physical features of the Philippine archipelago.
- Religious and cultural elements: The map includes vignettes such as Saint Francis Xavier traveling on a scalloped water-chariot, and Magellan's flagship, the carrack "Nao Victoria."
- Global trade: The map references the trans-Pacific Manila galleon trade.
- Regions covered:
- The entire Philippine archipelago, from northern Luzon to Mindanao and west to Palawan.
- Parts of nearby Borneo are also evident in the lower left.
- Design and style:
- The map features detailed cartography and engraving.
- It includes striking vignettes and a decorative cartouche in the upper right corner, dominated by a lion holding a banner and flanked by various figures representing different cultures.
- The bottom of the cartouche is surmounted by the Dos Mundos, underscoring the global reach of the Spanish empire.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
The "Mapa de Las Yslas Philipinas," created in 1744 by Pedro Murillo Velarde and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay, is a masterful representation of the Philippine archipelago. This map is a significant historical artifact, reflecting a decade of exploration and development since the original 1734 wall map. Murillo Velarde, a Jesuit priest and cartographer, collaborated with Bagay, a Filipino engraver, to produce this detailed and scientifically accurate depiction. Their work stands as a testament to the Spanish-Philippine collaboration during the 18th century, offering a glimpse into the era's cartographic advancements.
The map meticulously covers the entire Philippine archipelago, extending from the northern reaches of Luzon to the southern island of Mindanao, and westward to Palawan. It also includes parts of nearby Borneo, visible in the lower left corner. This comprehensive coverage showcases the diverse geography of the region, from its numerous islands and intricate coastlines to its mountain ranges and bodies of water. The Sulu Sea, prominently featured, serves as a backdrop for one of the map's most striking vignettes, adding both artistic and geographical value.
One of the most captivating aspects of this map is its inclusion of religious and cultural elements. In the Sulu Sea, Saint Francis Xavier is depicted traveling on a scalloped water-chariot, propelled by cherub-like mer-creatures. This illustration humorously includes a tiny crab returning the saint’s lost crucifix, a reference to an anecdote in his hagiography. Additionally, Magellan's flagship, the carrack "Nao Victoria," is illustrated just beneath the saint, symbolizing the historical significance of the first circumnavigation of the globe and its connection to the Philippines.
The upper right corner of the map features a decorative cartouche dominated by a lion holding a banner, flanked by figures representing various cultures. On the left, a berobed Chinese figure with a parasol and an Aeta with a bow and arrow are depicted, while on the right, a Cimarrón archer and a Moro with a kalasag (shield) and spear stand guard. This cartouche is surmounted by the Dos Mundos, symbolizing the global reach of the Spanish empire. Such artistic details not only enhance the map's visual appeal but also underscore the cultural diversity and historical context of the region.
This map is not only a geographical document but also a historical narrative, reflecting the dynamic interplay of exploration, trade, and cultural exchange in the 18th century. The inclusion of a large ship sailing towards the Philippines, likely representing the trans-Pacific Manila galleon trade, highlights the global connections facilitated by these islands. As a source map for many subsequent maps of the Philippines, this work by Murillo Velarde and Bagay remains an invaluable resource for understanding the historical and geographical evolution of the archipelago.
Cities and towns on this map
- Manila
- Cebu
- Zamboanga
- Vigan
- Cavite
- Bacolod
- Iloilo
- Davao
- Tacloban
- Legazpi
- Naga
- Dumaguete
- Butuan
- Tarlac
- San Fernando
- Laoag
- Lucena
- Cabanatuan
- Calapan
- Sorsogon
- Masbate
- Baguio
- Puerto Princesa
- Tagbilaran
- Ormoc
- Roxas
- Pagadian
- Dipolog
- Basilan
- Catbalogan
- Surigao
- Santiago
- Gapan
- Ligao
- Sagay
- Baybay
- Tandag
- Malaybalay
- Bontoc
- San Jose
- Tabaco
- Iriga
- Bangued
- Bongao
- Borongan
- Kabankalan
- Mati
- Tagum
- Panabo
- Tuguegarao
- Bais
- Catarman
- Calbayog
- Bayugan
- Gingoog
- Oroquieta
- Marawi
- Kidapawan
- Koronadal
- General Santos
- Cotabato
- Iligan
- Ozamiz
- Tangub
- Valencia
- Cagayan de Oro
- Tagoloan
- El Salvador
- Cabadbaran
- San Francisco
- Bislig
- Samal
- Digos
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Illustrations:
- Saint Francis Xavier on a scalloped water-chariot with cherub-like mer-creatures.
- Magellan's flagship, the carrack "Nao Victoria."
- A large ship, likely representing the Manila galleon trade, east of Luzon.
- Bodies of water:
- Sulu Sea
- Other notable features:
- Decorative cartouche in the upper right corner with a lion, various cultural figures, and the Dos Mundos.
Historical and design context
- Creation date: 1744
- Mapmakers/Publishers: Pedro Murillo Velarde and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay
- Context about the mapmakers: Pedro Murillo Velarde was a Jesuit priest and cartographer, and Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay was a Filipino engraver. This collaboration is a significant example of Spanish-Philippine cooperation in the 18th century.
- Historical significance:
- This map is the first edition of Nicolás de la Cruz Bagay’s reduction of the 1734 Murillo Velarde wall map of the Philippines.
- It is considered one of the most important productions in the history of Philippine printing.
- It is the second major map of the Philippines published in the Philippines, reflecting 10 years of discovery and development.
- It served as the source map for most subsequent maps of the Philippines well into the early 19th century.
- Themes and topics:
- Political and physical geography: The map provides detailed political and physical features of the Philippine archipelago.
- Religious and cultural elements: The map includes vignettes such as Saint Francis Xavier traveling on a scalloped water-chariot, and Magellan's flagship, the carrack "Nao Victoria."
- Global trade: The map references the trans-Pacific Manila galleon trade.
- Regions covered:
- The entire Philippine archipelago, from northern Luzon to Mindanao and west to Palawan.
- Parts of nearby Borneo are also evident in the lower left.
- Design and style:
- The map features detailed cartography and engraving.
- It includes striking vignettes and a decorative cartouche in the upper right corner, dominated by a lion holding a banner and flanked by various figures representing different cultures.
- The bottom of the cartouche is surmounted by the Dos Mundos, underscoring the global reach of the Spanish empire.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) version of this map.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
If you are not happy with your order for any reason, contact me and I'll get it fixed ASAP, free of charge. Please see my returns and refund policy for more information.
I am very confident you will like your restored map or art print. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and art prints and have over 5,000 real 5-star reviews. My work has been featured in interior design magazines, on the BBC, and on the walls of dozens of 5-star hotels.
I use a unique process to restore maps and artwork that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps and illustrations can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore them. As a result, I guarantee my maps and art prints are a cut above the rest. I stand by my products and will always make sure you're 100% happy with what you receive.
Almost all of my maps and art prints look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.
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