N. Luzon Antique Ilongot Hornbill Headdress Hat

Description

A primitive and ingeniously constructed early 20th century hornbill headdress called a "Panglao". It is made of the skull of the scarlet Hornbill bird attached to a brass wirework structure forming the headband. The chin strap is made of old cloth with an antique metal bottle cap toggle which is decorated and painted with lacquer. The eyes are plugged with mother-of-pearl and is secured with wire. The dangling pendants are made of twisted copper wire with delicately cut pieces of mother-of-pearl. The wearing of the "Panglao" indicates to all that its owner has taken a "head". For the Ilongot, red is a highly charged color which excites passion, anger and energy. A similar example can be seen on page 168 of "Form and Splendor" by Roberto Maramba, Copyright 1998.

Origin: N. Luzon, Ilongot Tribe