Mother Nature’s Bounty Harvest

This work by Victorio Edades, Galo Ocampo, and Carlos Francisco reflects a key collaboration between three major figures who championed modernism in early 20th century Philippines. The three artists worked on many large-scale works together, including several commissions for Juan Nakpil. An architect and civic leader, Nakpil commissioned this painting for display in his own residence. The focal point of the work is the papaya tree in the centre. Its branches reach up to the winged, presumably heavenly, beings who appear to be directing the human figures below. As the title suggests, the harvest is a rich one and various figures across the picture are gathering it in. On the left, a field worker urges a buffalo forward. Beside him, a kneeling woman lays out an assortment of tropical fruits. Between them, a man is bowed under the weight of a comb of bananas, emphasising the abundance of the crop as well as the back-breaking effort it takes to harvest it. The composition of the work, as well as some stylistic details (for example the rendering of the winged figures), suggest the influence of Art Nouveau. At the same time, decorative details from traditional textiles, and arts and crafts occur throughout the painting. These create a tapestry-like effect that give the work a sensuous and rich quality, and also show the artists’ conscious effort to ground the work in their local context.