Southeast Asia, northern Philippines, Ifugao province, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A striking wooden shield of rectangular form with 3 spikes at the top and 2 at the bottom, all enveloped in a rich, espresso-hued pigment. Bowing out at the center, the frontside is incised with a minimalist, striated design. A set of 4 braided wicker bands are strapped horizontally around the body, while the verso displays a carved, inset handle. This style of shield was used by headhunters. The Ifugao, the native people of the island of Luzon, practiced a traditional life of headhunting prior to their earliest contact with the western world during the American occupation of the island during WWII. Size: 9.3" W x 32.1" H (23.6 cm x 81.5 cm)
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 1995 to 2010
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#170965
Condition
Expected nicks, abrasions, and scratches, commensurate with age. Some losses to second to bottom wicker braid, while other 3 braids have been restored. Small areas of peeling to paint, as well as a few stable fissures to wood. Otherwise, excellent with great patina.