Carlos V. Francisco (November 4, 1912 – March 31, 1969), popularly known as Botong, was a muralist from Angono, Rizal.
Francisco was a most distinguished practitioner of mural painting for many decades and best known for his historical pieces. He was one of the first Filipino modernists along with Galo Ocampo and Victorio C. Edades who broke away from Fernando Amorsolo's romanticism of Philippine scenes. According to restorer Helmuth Josef Zotter, Francisco's art "is a prime example of linear painting where lines and contours appear like cutouts."[1]
His great works include Blood Compact, First Mass at Limasawa, The Martyrdom of Rizal, Bayanihan, Magpupukot, Fiesta, Bayanihan sa Bukid, Sandugo, Portrait of Purita, The Invasion of Limahong, Serenade, and Muslim Betrothal. Some of his murals have suffered damage over the years. The "Pageant of Commerce" emerged from several years of restoration in 2000.[1] His murals in the lobby of the Philippine General Hospital were restored for the 3rd time in 2007.[2]
He was also responsible for the discovery of the now famous Angono Petroglyphs in 1965. He was also involved in Costume Design in Philippine cinema.
He died in poverty from tuberculosis[1] but he was given the highest recognition, the title National Artist of the Philippines - Visual Arts posthumously in 1973.
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