Pelotas (Cockfight)
Original drawing/painting on paper, likely a preparatory study or finished graphic work • Attributed to Vicente Manansala (1910–1981), or a highly skilled student of the Filipino Modernist school.
Style & Movement
Modernist/Social Realism with elements of Cubism; specifically consistent with the 'Neo-Realism' movement in the Philippines.
Medium & Technique
Watercolor, graphite, and ink on paper. Employs light washes of color over a detailed linear underdrawing with some cross-hatching to define volume.
Creation Period
Circa 1940-1955
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches (visible area); landscape format.
Subject Description
A crowded arena depicting a cockfight, a traditional Filipino cultural event. The composition uses a high bird's-eye perspective looking down into the pit where two roosters are engaged. The spectators are arranged in concentric tiers, showing a diverse cross-section of men in mid-century attire (Barong Tagalog and Western shirts), highlighting the social aspect of the 'sabong'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The pigments appear stable, though there is evident age-toning to the paper.
Estimated Market Value
$5,000 - $12,000 USD (higher if attribution is fully authenticated to Manansala).
Auction Estimate
$4,000 - $9,000 USD.
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a private collection in the Philippines or a US-based collection focusing on Southeast Asian Modernism. No visible stamps, but the matting suggests professional framing from the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Manansala was a National Artist of the Philippines known for 'Transparent Cubism'. While this is more realist, it captures the social fabric of Filipino life that the Neo-Realists sought to document. It reflects the post-war transition of Philippine art toward modern social commentary.
Notable Features
The characterization of individual faces in the crowd is exceptionally high-quality. The central focus on the roosters provides a dynamic point of tension against the static, watchful poses of the audience.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (small brown spots) in the upper register, significant yellowing/acidification of the paper due to non-archival mounting, and slight fading of the blue/green pigments.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend de-framing to check for acidic backing. Treatment by a paper conservator to reduce foxing and a light aqueous wash to de-acidify is suggested. Re-mount using 100% rag acid-free matting and UV-protective glass.