THE National Museum unveiled on Rizal Day, Dec. 30, 2024, one of the rare surviving artworks of our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal — a clay sculpture of his love, Josephine Bracken. The sculpture, titled "Josephine Sleeping," was officially shown to the public during the commemoration of the 128th anniversary of Rizal's execution. The sculpture was created by Rizal during his exile in Dapitan.
According to Jorell Legaspi, deputy director general for museums, the artwork depicts Rizal's "moment of tranquility, moment of joy and bliss (sa piling ni [with]) Josephine Bracken. It symbolizes both sorrow and agony, and at the same time bliss, love and happiness."
