Sophia Buenavidez 

The National Museum of the Philippines has hailed the loan of Juan Luna's Una Bulaqueña to the Louvre Abu Dhabi (LAD) as “a first collaboration and major milestone in the cultural dialogue,” according to a statement released on June 18.

Photo Courtesy of MNL Today.

The portrait is currently on display in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step in the international recognition of Filipino artistic heritage.

Painted by one of the country’s most celebrated artists, Una Bulaqueña portrays a young woman from Bulacan dressed in traditional attire, symbolic of the grace and strength of the Filipina.

Juan Luna highlights his mastery of a combination of the European art traditions of his time and the distinct Filipino identity dynamics in the portrait. 

“With this display of Una Bulaqueña, Abu Dhabi audiences will have the opportunity to discover a great deal about its cultural and art historical context, thereby learning more about the rich and fascinating history of the Philippines,” LAD Chairman, His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, emphasizing the museum's commitment to global cultural exchange.

The portrait survived World War II and was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2008.

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, His Excellency Alfonso Ver, who attended the unveiling ceremony, described the exhibit as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations and reflect both nations’ “commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation through art.”

Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi Manuel Rabaté called the Una Bulaqueña “a great representation of the heritage and identity of the Filipino people.”

“This will bring a sense of familiarity and belonging to thousands of Filipinos across the United Arab Emirates and the greater Middle East,” added Jorell Legaspi, director of the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP).

Una Bulaqueña will remain on view at Louvre Abu Dhabi until June 2026.