Un Indio Natural - Tipos del País Illustration (Colonial Philippines, 19th Century)

This illustration portrays a native Filipino man dressed in traditional attire, representing the indigenous population during the Spanish colonial period. The figure is depicted with simplicity, emphasizing everyday identity.

Created by Justiniano Asunción, this piece is part of the Tipos del País series, which categorized individuals according to social and ethnic classifications used during colonial rule. The term “indio” was commonly used by Spanish authorities to refer to native Filipinos, often placing them at the lower end of the colonial hierarchy. Illustrations like this provide valuable insight into how indigenous populations were represented and perceived during this period.

This piece is part of the Maynila Archive, a curated collection of Philippine historical visuals preserved and made accessible as fine art prints.

Available as a fine art print
View print here

Written by Nelson

Founder of Maynila Archive. Researching and preserving Philippine visual heritage from colonial-era collections across the Philippines and the world.