My favorite piece by Botong. Untitled but I would title it as I do this account. It shows the Filipinos' deep sense of spirituality (not just religiosity, at least in this artwork). Notice, even the askal has his head bowed, though I will not discount the possibility that someone in the circle threw him some rice so that they will not be disturbed.
Undated, it is a monoprint which an acknowledged art authenticator estimates Carlos "Botong" Francisco did in the early 50s. "Possibly part of his 'angelus' series on the customs and traditions of the people of Angono," he said. It's been with the family since my childhood. But it was only late last year that it "spoke" to me.
It is lunchtime on an ordinary day for these farmhands. The woman with their hot meal came right on time.
They take a moment to say grace and give thanks, perhaps not just for the food but in their hearts, also for their good health and strength to work the soil, for their carabaos that ease up the back-breaking work, for 'man's best friend' that play around as they hoe and skip along as they return home at dusk day after day, for the coming rain -- notice the dark clouds -- that will nurture what they planted, and for the home and family they work for.
An ordinary scene on an ordinary day speaking about an extraordinary God and how fellowship with Him -- no matter how brief -- can bring peace and rest for anyone anywhere anytime.
I join Master Botong in giving praise to THE MASTER.
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