Panoramic view of Manila

The present lot is part of a landscape series which Alcuaz did from the 1970s throughout the 80s. In 1977, there was an exhibition of the artist inaugurating the Museum of Philippines Art (MOPA) and the present lot is most likely exhibited in the show. Like his other panoramic views of Manila, Alcuaz has prepared his compositions by going from the different top-floor rooms of the Holiday Inn where he was residing during the time when he painted the work.

The present lot is noted to be his better versions amongst the series.

Known for his flamboyant personality, Alcuaz's works often exudes a sense of eccentricity even for mundane subjects like still life or a landscape as with the present lot. As an expressionist, the lightness of joy and a spirited sense of exuberance that characterises his personality are readily presented on the canvas, too.