Chart of Map of the Philippine Islands - 1748 Anson

A Chart of the Channel in the Philippine Islands through which the Manila Galeon passes Drawn by: Richard William Seale (after George Anson) Published in: London Year: 1748 (First Edition) From: A Voyage Round the World (compiled by Richard Walter) Condition: Copper engraving with period hand-colouring A Tactical Record of British Naval Triumph This 1748 chart is one of the most historically significant maps of the Philippines from the 18th century. It was created to celebrate Admiral George Anson's legendary capture of the Spanish treasure galleon, the Nuestra Señora de Covadonga, off Cape Espiritu Santo in 1743. The "spoils" from this single capture were so vast they reportedly financed a significant portion of the British Navy's operations for years. The Path of the Manila Galleon The map is a specialized nautical chart designed to illustrate the track of the Spanish galleon trade. The Route: A dashed line marks the path from the "Mole of Cabite" (Cavite) in Manila Bay, winding through the San Bernardino Strait (the "Channel") before heading into the open Pacific. Geographic Focus: The map covers Luzon (Luconia), Mindoro, Panay, Cebu, and Samar (Samal). Its blocky, stylized depiction of the islands reflects the limited British knowledge of the Spanish-controlled archipelago at the time. Navigational Details: It is a functional marine chart featuring sandbars, reefs, and soundings, serving as both a historical trophy and a strategic guide for future British encounters.