Mabala, Je-Ann F.

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Prelim Milestone | Reflective Essay “Spoliarium by Juan Luna”

Last weekend I visited the National Museum with my friend. As we entered the museum I saw
the Spoliarium Painting By Juan Luna. It is the biggest painting in the museum. A large-scale
artwork by Juan Luna called "Spoliarium" shows the result of gladiatorial fighting in classical
Rome. The enormous, intricately detailed picture is separated into three primary areas. The slain
gladiators being hauled away serve as the main focal point and serve as a metaphor for the
terrible truths of life and death. The painting's themes of mortality, exploitation, and the
consequences of power are sometimes read as a satire on the cruelty and corruption of Roman
society. Luna's use of color and realism is superb, adding to the gloomy atmosphere.The
elaborate piece of art "Spoliarium '' by Juan Luna incorporates semiotic, iconic, contextual, and
evaluative elements. The themes of power, exploitation, and mortality are communicated through
the painting's visual language, narrative devices, and symbolic aspects. It reflects topics like
societal inequality and colonial oppression and has a strong historical foundation in both Filipino
and European history. Luna's depiction of Filipino topics gives a distinct viewpoint, and his
artistic style and tradition are in line with 19th-century European art. Political and social unrest
are reflected in the historical setting of the picture, which was displayed in 1884 during the
Spanish colonial era. It is among the finest Filipino artworks ever created because of its creative
excellence, emotional depth, and social relevance. Its influence goes beyond the realm of art,
serving as motivation for researchers, activists, and artists while showcasing the tenacity of the
Filipino people. Juan Luna's "Spoliarium" is a potent piece of art that elicits feelings,
perceptions, and realizations. An intense sense of melancholy and sorrow is evoked by the
painting's depiction of fallen gladiators being hauled away. In addition, the injustices and
exploitation that are portrayed provoke rage and outrage. Awe and veneration can be evoked by
the artwork's sheer scale and technical excellence.

The picture is a potent societal reflection on issues like the exploitation of the weak and the
dehumanizing implications of power. It offers historical context for Luna's era, especially the
Spanish colonial subjugation of the Philippines. The gladiators stand in for the oppressed masses,
and the arena is a metaphor for harsh reality. These and other components of the picture can be
read figuratively.Juan Luna's "Spoliarium" is a potent and transforming piece of art that inspires
spectators to reflect and feel profound empathy. A variety of emotions, such as sadness, rage, and
amazement, are evoked by the painting's portrayal of societal injustice and human suffering.
Viewers are able to delve into its levels of meaning and uncover themes of power, exploitation,
and perseverance thanks to its interpretive richness. The museum visit provides a fuller
understanding of the social, cultural, and political elements that molded Luna's artistic vision by
providing historical insight into his time and the colonial history of the Philippines. In addition to
encouraging admiration for Luna's technical mastery and creative inventiveness, the artwork
challenges spectators to consider their morals, convictions, and obligations in the face of social
injustice. All things considered, "Spoliarium" encourages emotional involvement, The artwork
provides information as well.