SPECTACULAR ANTIQUE BONTOC FIGURAL PIPE BOWL

Item Code: OPH104-0078

Origin:  Philippines, Northern Luzon, Bontoc People  (Provenance: Old French Collection.  Previously owned by Bernard Dulon's Brother Guy Dulon, Paris.)

Description:  This rare and superb pipe bowl likely dates to the 1st quarter of the 20th century and is presented on a black Lucite base.  This pipe was no doubt carved by a master craftsman and was probably commissioned for a wedding gift to village chief or other person of high status.  It is wonderfully detailed and depicts a serene female figure in a tucked posture nursing an infant.  Lovely dark rich patina turning to red.  Interestingly, a colleague (Alex Arthur) who has an important collection of Philippine Art has a similar yet smaller pipe in his collection.  This quality example is sure to be a highlight in any collection.

Dimensions:  Height 4.75" (12 cm),  Width 2.25"  (5.75 cm) 

Price:   SOLD