RARE & SUPERB 19TH C. SOUTHERN PHILIPPINE WAR SHIELD 

Origin:  S. Philippines, Mindanao, Bagobo People (Provenance: Previously in an old U.K. Collection)

Description:  A really extraordinary shield most certainly dating the 19th century.  It features a beautiful flowing hourglass form and is decorated with channels of incised decoration with applied red and black paint.  Its back side is especially attractive. The dramatic plumes of long flowing hair are likely Horse while the shorter pieces are Pig's hair. 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 smoky patina acquired from years of age and use.  In good condition for its age.  There are a couple small arrow holes in the shield, and there is some slight loss to the right side of the round central boss and to the top corners.  The top horizontal bar appears to be an old replacement.

Dimensions:  Height 45",  width 21" 

Price:   SOLD