Thread by @incunabula

17th and 18th century Philippine printing is remarkable in its breadth, depth, linguistic interest and variety of visual effect - all the richness of the Spanish tradition but in a wildly multilingual environment and enhanced by the contributions of local typesetters & printers.

This is Juan Francisco de San Antonio's "Chronicas de la Apostolica Provincia de S. Gregorio", 3 volumes printed in red & black in Manilla, 1738-1744. The plate, actually engraved in Manila, shows the martyrdom of San Pedro Bautista along with his 22 companions in Japan in 1597.

The Chronicas, besides being a fine example of Philippine printing - described by Medina as "sobresaliente" - is an invaluable source of information. The 3 volumes provide a comprehensive history of the Spanish Franciscan Missions in the Philippines from their arrival until 1741.

Vol. I gives a full history of the Philippine Archipelago, including its conquest by Spain, early exploration, and its native peoples; as well as a description of the archipelago and its coastline which was so detailed & accurate that mariners were able to use it for navigation.

The 3rd vol is devoted entirely to the Spanish missions in Japan, and is illustrated with the magnificent engraved plate showing the martyrdom in 1597 of the Franciscan missionary San Pedro Bautista, who was crucified at Nagasaki along with 22 Franciscan companions and 3 Jesuits.

Juan Francisco de San Antonio was a Franciscan priest, born in Madrid in 1682. He went to the Philippines in 1724 where he served as reader of theology and secretary of the Province; he spent most of the rest of his life living amongst the local people. He died in Manila in 1744.