Manila shawl; second half of the twentieth century. Embroidered silk. It shows wear and tear. Measurements: 200 x 180 cm. This Manila shawl, made in the 19th century, presents a complex composition embroidered in bright colors, which stand out against the beige silk background. A traditional garment among the ladies of high society, the Manila shawl took its name from the capital of the former Spanish colony of the Philippines, where the Spanish galleons of the 16th century loaded the products brought from the Orient for export to Europe and America. It originated in China, where they were made of silk and embroidered by hand. The first shawls were decorated with dragons, bamboos and pagodas. However, these motifs were soon replaced by European ones. The bangs were added due to Spanish influence. In the case of this example, however, the oriental aesthetic predominates, with bouquets of peonies and fantastic flowers on which birds of paradise stand out. Traditionally, it had to cover the entire back and reach the end of each arm, hence its large dimensions. They were always especially expensive pieces, due to the meticulous work involved in the fringing and embroidery. It shows wear and tear.