Mexican engraver · 19th century

Manuel Manilla

Manuel Manilla was one of the most important engravers of 19th-century Mexican popular graphics. He worked for Antonio Vanegas Arroyo's press before José Guadalupe Posada, and many consider him Posada's predecessor and mentor in the workshop.

His work includes calaveras, bullfighting scenes, lotería games, illustrations for corridos and children's stories. His line is stiffer and thicker than Posada's, with a strength of its own that sets him apart.

For decades his name stood in Posada's shadow, and many of his images were mistakenly attributed to him. Today Manuel Manilla is recognized as one of the pioneers of the graphic arts in Mexico.

The MUNAG holds original pieces by Manuel Manilla, including lead plates and printed engravings of bullfighting scenes.