Ilongot Headhunter's Hornbill Earrings

Description

"Batling" were the primary jewelry worn by Ilongot males. Only those who participated in a headhunting raid or who had actually severed the head of a victim had the privilege to wear the "Batling"! Beautifully finished with five "fringe-like" cut shell dangles, accented with red glass beads. In good condition showing obvious age and use. Presented on a custom metal display stand. The distinctive angular cut symbolized profound beauty and youthful vitality to the Ilongot. Red was an important color and symbolic of the color of blood. A similar pair can be seen on page 165 of "Form and Splendor" by Roberto Maramba, Copyright 1998.

Origin: Northern Philippine, Ilongot People
Period: likely Early 20th century
Materials: The red pendants were cut from the beak of a Scarlet Hornbill bird. They are comprised of sheet brass fittings (top & bottom) which are secured with tiny copper rivets. A chain of tiny oval sections of mother-of-pearl are joined to the top with finely crafted copper wire and spaced with red, yellow and white glass beads.