The Blood Compact

"The Blood Compact" is a captivating 1886 painting by Filipino artist Juan Luna. It vividly depicts the 1565 Sandugo, a blood compact ritual between Datu Sikatuna of Bohol and the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi, along with other conquistadors. This historical event marked the forging of a significant alliance between the local chieftain and the Spanish.

Juan Luna completed this masterpiece in Paris in 1886. The painting's excellence earned it accolades in both France and the United States by 1904. This work was part of Luna's pensionado period, during which he refined his painting skills in Rome. As a gesture of goodwill, Luna gifted three of his paintings to the Spanish government, with "The Blood Compact" being one of them.

Notably, prominent figures like José Rizal and Trinidad H. Pardo de Tavera played crucial roles in the creation of this piece. They provided Luna with valuable historical insights and even posed as the figures depicted in the painting.

Today, "The Blood Compact" is proudly displayed in Malacañan Palace, the official residence of the President of the Philippines. In 2008, the painting was featured in an exhibition showcasing Luna's works from the Bank of the Philippine Islands collection. This event celebrated the bank's 30th anniversary and highlighted the emergence of Filipino identity in the late 19th century.