Tribal Tattoo Decorated Tinguian/ Kalinga War Shield w/ Human Figure !!

Description

An impressive shield dating to the 19th century when headhunting practices were the norm in the Northern Cordillera! If you are familiar with this type of art form then you'll appreciate how rare and desirable this shield is. This compact shield would have been ideal for parrying blows. It has applied paint decoration on both sides which was intended to imbue the warrior with power and afford him protection. The motif on the backside is identical to the traditional tattooing the warrior would have worn on his chest and forearms. What makes this example unique is that there is a human figure holding what appears to be a snake in one hand! Years ago the shield was coated with varnish which helped protect the paint and ahs now oxidized from age. It is in good condition and retains its original rattan binding. There is the remains of an old paper label on the right leg together with a set of collection or inventory numbers on the handle ( L.137 No. 154 ) and also repeated below the stick figure. A related example collected in 1906 by Otley Beyer can be seen on page 69 no. 19 of "Protection Power and Display" Boston College Museum of Art.

Origin: Northern Luzon, Tinguian People