RARE & SUPERB 19TH C. WAR SHIELD, MINDANAO PHILIPPINES
Origin: S.
Philippines, Mindanao, Bagobo People
Period/Date: Late 19th century
Materials: wood, shell, rattan, iron nails, charcoal paint, hair
Description: This rare and extraordinary shield is a great example for a number of reasons. It has the most elegant and gorgeous handle with serpent-like heads we’ve ever seen!! It retains its top horizontal bar with rattan binding which is rare. In addition, it still has its original scalloped shell medallion on the central boss! This is significant since they are almost never present. It has an overall beautiful flowing hourglass form and is decorated with channels of incised decoration with applied black paint. The two horizontal wood slates which are lashed with rattan gave the shield added strength and clearly indicate that it was used for fighting as opposed to a "dancing". It is complete and has a very old patina acquired from years of age and use. There are some minor cracks and abrasions as might be expected and much of the hair along the perimeter is missing. There is a stable vertical crack at the bottom which received an indigenous old staple mend at its base. Integrity is very solid. A major museum quality example of cultural importance.
Dimensions: Length 43" (109 cm), Width 18.25" (46 cm)
Price: SOLD
