Mestizo Musical Iconography: Manila’s Santo Niño Cradle

Abstract

ABSTRACTDuring the eighteenth century, the artistic exchange between the Chinese coasts and the rest of the world was noteworthy. One of the most significant pieces resulting from these encounters is the Santo Niño cradle owned by the Money Museum in Manila. It was probably made during the 18th century and was executed using Chinese gold filigree. On top, a group of musical angels can be found. They play different instruments, such as a harp, an erhu, 二胡, or trumpets. This artwork is an important example in which Chinese and Western musical iconography can be found together.