Journey of the Barong Tagalog, Spanish Colonial Philippines Part 15: the Lower Classes of the 19th Century

In stark contrast to the present day, in the 19th century, the Barong Tagalog was so common, it was worn by all segments of society, including the lower classes. Modest barongs were worn by the poor and working poor.

Justiniano Asunción’s “Old Beggar Led by a Young Boy”, 19th century.

Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo’s “The Beggars”, 19th century.

Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo’s “La Banca”, 1876.

“Indiens Tagales pilant du riz” from Jean Mallat de Bassilon, Les Philippines (Paris: Arthus Bertrand, 1846)