A new collection has found its way to the public as Museo P. Lhuillier opens its doors in Antipolo, Rizal. The museum highlights the historical collection of Ambassador Philippe J. Lhuillier—the Philippine Ambassador to Spain—collected throughout his years of service.
Known as a diplomat, philanthropist, and the founder of pawnshop Cebuana Lhuillier, the Ambassador would acquire pieces from flea markets and old churches in Europe while pursuing his diplomatic work, eventually amassing an extensive collection of artifacts. He now operates two establishments that display his personal collection, one being the Palacio de Memoria—a restored pre-war mansion in Parañaque.
His latest venture, the Museo P. Lhuillier, displays European relics, religious artifacts, and art, with one of its key features being the Kapilya de Santa Rosa de Lima—a chapel that reflects Lhuillier’s devotion to his faith and houses a reliquary for Sta. Rosa de Lima.
Lining the halls of the museum are religious figures and paintings that are mostly considered antique, including elements like angels and saints, variations of the Madonna and Child, and other church-centered artifacts like bells and stair pieces.
The museum also houses sculptures like the bronze “Arabian Horseman” by artists Alfred Barye and Emile Guillemin, and paintings such as a portrait of King Philip II of Spain. Across the rooms are furniture pieces built with carvings made by fine sculptors, with a European touch of vintage chairs, instruments, candlesticks, and other novelty items.
The museum is a testament to the Ambassador’s life’s work, promoting faith and devotion from across the world. Take a peak of the collection from Mondays to Saturdays, 8 AM to 5 PM. For more information, visit Museo P. Lhuillier’s website.