The Execution of Lady Jane Grey Painting by Paul Delaroche

From My Art Readings This Morning

"The Execution of Lady Jane Grey" is an oil painting by Paul Delaroche, completed in 1833, which is now in the National Gallery in London.

The painting interprets the moments preceding the death of the 17-year-old Lady Jane Grey, who on 10 July 1553 was proclaimed Queen of England, only to be deposed nine days later and executed in 1554. Jane is sometimes referred to as the "Nine Days' Queen" due to the brevity of her reign.

Jane was the great-granddaughter of Henry VII, through his youngest daughter Mary, and a grand-niece of Henry VIII, and cousin to Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I.

The painting depicts the moment that Jane, blindfolded, is being assisted to lay her head upon the block for the executioner. Her outstretched hand reaches uncertainly down to find the block. She is being assisted by a man who is identified as John Brydges, 1st Baron Chandos. Chandos was a Lieutenant of the Tower at the time of Jane's execution. 

While imprisoned in the Tower, Jane was attended by ladies in waiting, one of whom was the nursemaid of her infancy. Two ladies in waiting are depicted in the painting, showing their grief at the event which is about to take place. Text written by: Lamitta Mansour

Meanwhile, Did you Know That?

The Philippines is stealing the spotlight in global tourism, surpassing regional heavyweights like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam.

By targeting key markets such as China, the US, South Korea, Japan, and the UK, the country has sparked an impressive tourism boom.

With its breathtaking beaches, vibrant cultural festivals, and eco-tourism experiences, it has become a must-visit destination for both adventure lovers and luxury travelers.

This success is fueled by strategic marketing and government initiatives, propelling the Philippines to new heights in the global travel scene.

Lastly, here are compliments that are not about Physical Appearance.

The Prado- Mona Lisa vs the Da Vinci Mona Lisa

This posting is inspired by my recent readings on medieval art as well as the recent Mini-TV series on the Life Of Leonardo Da Vinci that I enjoyed very much.

The Prado Mona Lisa is a painting of the same subject as Leonardo da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa (which is held by the Louvre Museum, Paris).

This painting has been displayed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid (Spain) since 1819, but was considered for decades a worthless copy.

After its restoration in 2012, the Prado's Mona Lisa was claimed to be the earliest replica of Leonardo's masterpiece.

There are dozens of paintings that were crafted in the last decade of the quattrocento and the first two decades of the cinquecento by Leonardo da Vinci’s many talented allievi, followers and studio assistants, both in his Milano atelier and in his Firenze atelier.

These so-called Leonardeschi may have seen or studied a Leonardo disegno (preparatory drawing) and then painted a final painting.

Although there are dozens of surviving replicas of Mona Lisa from the 16th and 17th centuries,the Prado's Mona Lisa may have been painted simultaneously by a student of Leonardo in the same studio where he painted his own Mona Lisa, so it is said to be the replica with the most historical value.

The painting shown in the post is a nice example of a painting by one of Leonardo’s many talented pupils and allievi in his Milano atelier and in his Firenze atelier, known as the Leonardeschi.

Among these Leonardeschi, either Salai (Gian Giacomo Caprotti) or Francesco Melzi, is the most plausible author of the Prado's version, although other experts opine that the painting could have been executed by one of Leonardo's Spanish students.

The Prado “La Gioconda” Prado Mona Lisa -Follower of Leonardo da Vinci c. 1503–1516 oil on panel, Prado, Madrid

Meanwhile here's the Da Vinci Mona Lisa. Can you see the Difference?

The Mona Lisa is a half-length portrait painting by Italian artist Leonardo da Vinci. Considered an archetypal masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance, it has been described as "the best known, the most visited, the most written about, the most sung about, [and] the most parodied work of art in the world."

Lastly, Did you Know That?

Cebu City holds the title of the oldest city in the Philippines, established in 1565. It serves as a significant cultural and economic hub in the Visayas region.

Known for its rich historical heritage, Cebu City is home to landmarks such as Magellan's Cross and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. The city also boasts beautiful beaches, vibrant festivals like Sinulog, and a thriving business district.

Cebu City's blend of historical significance and modern development makes it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Have You Heard of Rodrigues and Deception Islands?

1. Rodrigues is a small volcanic island located in the Indian Ocean, about 560 kilometers (348 miles) east of Mauritius, to which it belongs as an autonomous outer island. Covering an area of approximately 108 square kilometers (42 square miles), Rodrigues is surrounded by a stunning lagoon twice its size, encased by coral reefs. The island is home to about 43,000 people, with Port Mathurin serving as its charming capital and administrative center.

Known for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Rodrigues is often described as a hidden gem. Its landscapes feature rolling hills, basaltic rock formations, secluded beaches, and lush valleys. The island’s lagoon is a haven for marine life, offering excellent snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing opportunities. The coral reefs, home to vibrant fish and other aquatic species, are a significant draw for eco-tourists and conservationists.

Rodrigues is steeped in Creole culture, with a warm and hospitable population that speaks Rodriguan Creole, alongside French and English. The island’s cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage, with dishes often featuring fresh seafood, local vegetables, and spices. Traditional music, like sega tambour, plays an essential role in community life, often performed during festivals and gatherings.

Despite its remoteness, Rodrigues has maintained a sustainable and eco-friendly way of life. The island is increasingly focused on preserving its unique biodiversity, including efforts to protect endangered species like the Rodrigues fruit bat. For those seeking a serene escape with authentic cultural experiences and natural splendor, Rodrigues is a captivating destination.

2. Deception Island, Antarctica: Deception Island is one of the most remarkable volcanic islands in the world, located in the South Shetland Islands near the Antarctic Peninsula. Its distinctive horseshoe shape results from a massive volcanic eruption that created a flooded caldera, forming a natural harbor known as Port Foster. This harbor has historically provided refuge for sailors in one of the harshest regions on Earth. The island was once a hub of activity during the early 20th century, serving as a key location for whaling operations. Remnants of whaling stations and abandoned structures still stand as a testament to its industrial past.

Today, Deception Island is known for its unique geothermal features. The volcanic activity beneath the surface creates steaming beaches and warm water pockets, a stark contrast to the icy surroundings. These conditions make it possible for adventurous visitors to take a dip in Antarctica's waters—an experience unlike any other. The island also hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and seabirds, which thrive in its harsh yet vibrant ecosystem. Although uninhabited, Deception Island is home to temporary research stations operated by various countries and is a popular stop for Antarctic expeditions. Visitors are drawn to its surreal landscapes, volcanic history, and opportunities for scientific study.

Meanwhile, Did you Know That....

Located on Samal Island, Philippines, the Monfort Bat Cave holds the Guinness World Record for the largest colony of Geoffroy's Rousette fruit bats (Rousettus amplexicaudatus).

This bat sanctuary is home to an estimated 2.5 million bats, playing a crucial role in pollination and maintaining the island’s ecosystem. The cave's conservation efforts have made it a top eco-tourism destination, attracting visitors who want to witness the breathtaking sight of bats emerging at dusk.

One of the Largest Fresh Water Fish- Pirarucu

From My Readings This Week

In 1993, a fisherman from Iquitos, Peru was captured in this unforgettable image — carrying a massive paiche, also known as arapaima or pirarucu.

One of the largest freshwater fish on Earth, this Amazonian giant can grow over 3 meters (10 ft) and weigh more than 400 lbs.

What makes it even more fascinating? This fish breathes air. It must surface every 15–20 minutes to survive, and can hold its breath up to 40 minutes if threatened.

Found in rivers, swamps, and floodplains, the arapaima plays a vital role in the Amazon ecosystem. But due to overfishing and habitat loss, its survival is at risk.

This image isn’t just about the size of the fish — it’s about culture, resilience, and the deep connection between people and the natural world.

Meanwhile, Did you know that.....

The first-ever Filipino film, Dalagang Bukid (Country Maiden), premiered in 1919 and was directed by José Nepomuceno, the "Father of Philippine Cinema." It was a silent film with live music, featuring Atang de la Rama, a famous stage actress, in the lead role.

The success of Dalagang Bukid sparked a growing film industry in the Philippines, making it one of the oldest in Asia. Filipino cinema has since evolved into a powerhouse of storytelling, artistry, and social commentary.

Finally, Did you know that....

The Sinulog Festival is one of the largest and most famous festivals in the Philippines? Held every third Sunday of January in Cebu, it celebrates the Filipino people's conversion to Christianity and their devotion to the Santo Niño. The term “Sinulog” refers to the unique forward-backward dance that mimics the flow of Cebu’s Pahina River, symbolizing the movement of life and faith.

The festival features a grand parade with vibrant floats, street dancing, and colorful costumes, all while reflecting deep religious devotion through novenas, masses, and processions. It’s a powerful celebration of faith, culture, and unity!

Salidumay: The Fading Echoes of Cordilleran Courtship”

This posting is related to my previous posting on the Kundiman- Philippines Love songs from theTagalog Regions

In the highlands of Northern Luzon, where the air is cool and the mountains guard centuries of tradition, a song lingers in the memory of the Cordillera people. This song is called Salidumay.

Salidumay is not just a melody—it is a courtship song, a gentle exchange between young men and women, echoing through the rice terraces and valleys during gatherings. Passed down through generations, Salidumay carried with it the values of love, respect, and community harmony. Today, however, this once vibrant tradition is rarely sung, and when it is, it is often performed in translations or in staged cultural festivals, instead of being naturally lived in the villages.

The Origins of Salidumay

The word “Salidumay” itself does not have a direct translation. It is more of a refrain or musical expression, similar to “la la la” in modern music, but deeply rooted in indigenous chants. The song has many versions depending on the tribe—Kankanaey, Ifugao, Bontoc, or Tingguian—and each version carries unique verses, yet all of them revolve around themes of courtship, love, and sometimes even playful teasing.

Young men would sing Salidumay to express admiration to women, and in return, the women would respond with their own verses—accepting, rejecting, or teasing back. It was more than romance: it was an oral tradition of wit, respect, and cultural pride.

The Role in Cordilleran Life

Long before radios and modern music, villagers gathered during community celebrations, weddings, or harvest feasts. Amidst dancing and drinking tapey (rice wine), the voices of young men and women would rise in call-and-response form.

The man would sing his admiration:

praising the woman’s beauty,

admiring her family’s honor,

or promising loyalty.

The woman, on the other hand, had equal power in the song—her reply could gently reject the suitor, test his sincerity, or accept his courtship.

Through this exchange, courtship was never forceful but respectful. It allowed space for laughter, poetry, and honesty.

The Music and Meaning

The melody of Salidumay is distinct: slow, repetitive, almost hypnotic. It reflects the rhythm of mountain life—steady, calm, and enduring.

The lyrics, though simple, are layered with meaning. For example, a line about “a flower blooming on the mountainside” could symbolize a young woman’s beauty and purity. A verse about “crossing rivers” could signify a man’s willingness to overcome obstacles for love.

The repetition of “Salidumay” serves as a chorus that binds the singers and listeners together, like a heartbeat shared by the community.

Why It Is Fading Today

In today’s fast-paced world, the younger generation of Cordillerans are more exposed to modern pop, K-pop, and Western love songs. Salidumay is often only heard during cultural shows, school programs, or tourist presentations.

The natural setting—where villagers once sang it spontaneously under the moonlight—has slowly faded. Many elders say that the essence of Salidumay is being lost, because when sung on stage, it becomes performance instead of genuine emotion.

Yet, some communities are reviving it by teaching children in schools, including it in heritage festivals, and even blending it with modern instruments while keeping the original melody alive.

Why It Matters to All Filipinos

Even if you are not from the Cordillera, Salidumay carries lessons for all Filipinos:

Respectful Courtship – It shows us that love can be expressed through words, music, and sincerity—not just through flashy gestures.

Cultural Identity – Every region in the Philippines has its own version of folk songs. Keeping Salidumay alive helps us protect our shared cultural soul.

Community Connection – Singing together binds people. Unlike modern love songs heard alone through earphones, Salidumay was sung with and for others.

A Living Heritage

Imagine standing on the edge of the Banaue Rice Terraces, as the sun sets behind the mountains. A group of elders begins to sing:

“Salidumay… salidumay diway…”

The haunting, beautiful refrain fills the air. Younger voices join in. Suddenly, it is not just a song—it is a thread connecting past and present, ancestors and descendants, love and memory.

Salidumay may be rarely sung today, but as long as someone remembers its melody, its spirit lives on.

Meanwhile here are some well-known Visayan love songs from the Philippines:

• Matud Nila: A popular and classic Visayan love song.
• Dandansoy: A traditional Visayan folk song that explores themes of love and separation, often interpreted as a woman bidding farewell to her lover.
• Balay ni Mayang: A well-liked Cebuano love song, described as a romantic ballad.
• Usahay: A well-known Visayan love song that's been featured on shows like "The Voice Teens Philippines".
• Imoha Ra Akong Kasingkasing: Another popular love song by Von Saw and Aine Abella. 

Traditional forms

• In Cebuano, the traditional form of Visayan love songs is called Balitao (or Balitaw).
• The Balitao traditionally involves a debate, often centered on love and courtship, between a man and a woman while they dance to music played on instruments like the subing (a native flute) or sista (a guitar made of coconut shell).
• In Hiligaynon, a dialect of Visayan, folk songs (including love songs) are also sometimes referred to as Balitao, and includes the sentimental song "Walang Angay".
• Hiligaynon also has a unique folk song called Composo, a soft melody ballad that tells stories of love and other incidents. 

Contemporary Visayan love songs

Modern Visayan pop (Vispop) also features love songs. Some examples mentioned include:

• Padayon by John Cadelina.
• Gugme by Willfreedo.
• Labyu Langga.
• Intergalactic Gugma.
• Kung Siya Man by TJ Monterde, which is described as a romantic ballad about letting go. 

Bahag and the Sandata Outfit: The Forgotten Symbol of Strength and Identity

Bahag: The Forgotten Symbol of Strength and Identity

The bahag is one of the most remarkable pieces of indigenous Filipino clothing, often overlooked in today’s modern fashion. It is a traditional loincloth, worn by various tribes across the Philippines, most prominently by the Ifugao, Kalinga, Gaddang, and other highland groups in Northern Luzon. Far from being a simple garment, the bahag is a visual language that speaks of bravery, status, and belonging.

Made from handwoven textiles, the bahag consists of a long rectangular piece of cloth, carefully wrapped and secured around the waist. The way it is folded and draped is an art form in itself, passed down through generations. Its vivid colors and intricate geometric patterns are not chosen randomly—they carry symbolic meaning. In Kalinga society, for example, red patterns often symbolize courage and valor in battle, while more elaborate designs indicate higher social standing or leadership within the community. Simpler patterns, on the other hand, might suggest youth or a commoner’s role in society.

The bahag was not only practical but also deeply tied to rituals and ceremonies. Warriors wore it with pride during headhunting days, while elders donned more ornate versions during tribal gatherings, dances, and rites of passage. Every thread reflected the values of resilience, honor, and identity.

Though it has largely disappeared from daily life, the bahag survives today during festivals, cultural showcases, and traditional ceremonies. It continues to remind Filipinos of a time when clothing was more than fashion—it was a declaration of who you were and what you stood for.

The forgotten bahag deserves recognition not as a relic of the past but as a living testimony of indigenous artistry and pride. In a world where fast fashion dominates, the bahag invites us to remember the depth of meaning woven into every strand of cloth by the hands of our ancestors.

Meanwhile, here's information on the Tagalog Sandata Outfit – The Forgotten Warrior Attire of the Tagalog People

The Tagalog Sandata Outfit is one of the most fascinating yet often forgotten pieces of Filipino history. The word sandata itself means weapon in Tagalog, and it represents not just the tools of battle, but the entire culture of readiness, bravery, and dignity that the Tagalog warriors carried with them.

Long before the Spanish colonizers arrived in the 1500s, the Tagalog people already had a rich tradition of warfare, leadership, and protection of their communities. Their warrior outfit was simple, but every piece carried a deep meaning. It was not just clothing for battle—it was a symbol of courage, loyalty, and honor.

The Bahag – The Warrior’s Garment

At the center of the Tagalog Sandata Outfit was the bahag, a traditional loincloth. This was made of woven cotton or abaca fibers, and it was tied firmly around the waist. The bahag allowed freedom of movement, which was important for warriors who needed speed and agility in combat. Unlike heavy armors from Europe, the bahag reflected the tropical climate of the Philippines. It was light, practical, and effective.

But the bahag was not plain. Often, it had woven designs and colors that reflected the warrior’s community and status. In many Tagalog villages, red or deep-colored threads were added, symbolizing bravery and bloodshed in defense of one’s people.

The Putong – The Warrior’s Headband

Another important part of the Tagalog warrior’s attire was the putong, or headband. This was usually red in color. Red symbolized courage, readiness for war, and sacrifice. When a warrior tied the putong around his head, it was a sign to everyone that he was prepared to fight, to protect his family, and to defend his barangay.

There were also variations of the putong. In some accounts, the style and color of the putong could also show the warrior’s rank or achievements. Some headbands had beads or embroidery, showing prestige. Others were plain but bright, meant only to mark readiness for battle.

Weapons and Shields – Completing the Outfit

The Tagalog Sandata Outfit was not complete without weapons. Warriors carried bolo knives, spears, and shields. The shield, often called kalasag, was made of hardwood, sometimes reinforced with rattan. These shields were not just protective gear; they were decorated with carvings and paint that symbolized spirits or protective forces.

The warrior’s spear and bolo were considered extensions of his identity. To lose one’s weapon in battle was seen as dishonorable, while carrying it with pride showed responsibility and manhood.

Simplicity but Symbolic Power

What makes the Tagalog Sandata Outfit remarkable is its simplicity. Compared to the armors of other nations, it might seem plain, but every element had deep cultural meaning. The bahag gave freedom of movement. The putong showed the warrior’s resolve. The sandata, or weapons, represented his duty. Together, they formed not only a warrior’s outfit but also a warrior’s identity.

Warriors as Protectors

In the Tagalog worldview, warriors were not simply fighters. They were protectors of the barangay, guardians of the datu or leader, and defenders of their people’s honor. Wearing the bahag and putong was a statement: I am ready to protect, I am ready to sacrifice, and I am ready to fight for my people.

Cultural Memory

Sadly, as time passed and colonization changed Filipino society, the Tagalog Sandata Outfit slowly faded from everyday memory. Spanish colonizers introduced new clothing, and the old ways were sometimes looked down upon as “uncivilized.” But today, historians and cultural advocates remind us that these simple garments represent a time when the Tagalog warriors stood proud and free.

The Tagalog Sandata Outfit is not just about war. It is about identity, resilience, and pride in one’s heritage. It reminds us that even the simplest clothing can carry powerful meaning when tied to bravery and love of community.

#FilipinoHeritage #TagalogWarriors #ForgottenHistory #SandataOutfit #PhilippineCulture #WarriorTradition

Finally, Did you Know that....

Filipinos from Southeast Asia are one of the largest Groups By Ancestry in the United States ( 2025 )