From Manila to the Louvre Abu Dhabi: Juan Luna’s “Una Bulaqueña” dazzles on the global stage

A timeless portrait of grace, heritage, and Filipino pride finds a new spotlight in UAE

Last updated: June 19, 2025 | 11:35

Manuel Almario, Senior News Editor

2 MIN READ

Now part of the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s prestigious permanent galleries on Saadiyat Island, this larger-than-life oil painting will be on display through June 2026.

Insta @louvreabudhabi

Dubai: Juan Luna’s iconic painting, Una Bulaqueña—a luminous symbol of the Filipina spirit—has officially taken its place among the world’s cultural masterpieces at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. In an unprecedented cultural milestone, this beloved national treasure is now on view outside the Philippines for the very first time.

Hailed as Luna’s own Mona Lisa, Una Bulaqueña is more than just a painting. It is a love letter to Filipino identity—a stunning portrayal of a poised young woman from Bulacan, resplendent in her traditional baro’t saya. Painted in 1895 during the Spanish colonial era, the artwork masterfully fuses European technique with the soul of the Filipino experience.

Now part of the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s prestigious permanent galleries on Saadiyat Island, this larger-than-life oil painting will be on display through June 2026, thanks to a landmark collaboration between the National Museum of the Philippines and the UAE’s cultural flagship institution.

Unveiled in a ceremony graced by His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Louvre Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Alfonso A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, and Jorell M. Legaspi, Deputy Director-General of the National Museum of the Philippines, Una Bulaqueña was handpicked as a centerpiece of the museum’s Ambassador Object program—representing the rich tapestry of Filipino history and resilience.

For years, the identity of the woman in the painting remained a mystery. But recent discoveries by historian Ambeth Ocampo have revealed her to be Emiliana Yriarte Trinidad of San Rafael, Bulacan—a revelation that adds an even deeper personal dimension to Luna’s celebrated work.

Previously housed in the Malacañang Palace and revered as one of the most important works in the National Museum’s collection—second only to the epic Spoliarium—Una Bulaqueña now steps onto the global stage, inviting the world to witness the strength, elegance, and quiet power of the Filipina spirit.

This momentous exhibition not only strengthens cultural ties between the Philippines and the UAE, but also offers a profound reminder: art knows no borders. Through Una Bulaqueña, Juan Luna’s legacy continues to inspire across continents.

Don’t miss this rare chance to experience a piece of Philippine soul in the halls of one of the world’s most revered museums.

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Manuel AlmarioSenior News Editor

Manuel has been with Gulf News for 24 years, currently serving as a Senior News Editor and a vital member of the team. From managing social media platforms and crafting viral content to shooting and editing videos on various topics such as weather, gold prices, and traffic updates, Manuel ensures news is not just timely but engaging. He also moderates reader comments and keeps the digital space respectful and impactful. Formerly the Community Editor for the Readers section, Manuel helped residents resolve issues with banks, telecom providers, utilities, and government agencies—giving people a voice and driving accountability. “I’m proud that, with the cooperation of companies, I was able to help people get the answers they needed,” he says. Beyond the newsroom, Manuel is driven by a passion for human interest stories—amplifying voices that often go unheard. “From rags-to-riches journeys to the quiet resilience of people with special needs, I believe these stories restore hope in humanity,” he added. “In every story I tell,” Manuel says, “my goal is simple: to inspire hearts, inform minds, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s a viral video, a quiet act of resilience, or a voice that needs to be heard, I believe every story has the power to connect us—and sometimes, even change us.” Manuel’s impact goes far beyond the newsroom—he’s been honored as one of the 300 most influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition 2020 by Illustrado. His dedication to telling powerful stories, along with his influence in community, culture, and human interest, has earned him a well-deserved place on this prestigious list.