RARE MASTER-CARVED IFUGAO RICE SPATULA W/ SEATED BULUL

Origin: Philippines, N. Luzon, Ifugao People     (Provenance:  Ex. Hirofumi Kobayashi Collection Japan.  The Kobayashi collection is well known and in fact a number of his pieces are published.  Hiro established himself in the 1960s as a noted commercial fashion photographer in Paris.  In 1969 on a trip to Calcutta he was so moved by the sight of bodies being cremated near the Ganges that he abandoned his career.  For 30 years after that he photographed "death rituals" among the hill tribes of the Philippines and built an impressive high quality collection of Philippine material culture.)

Period/Date:  Early 20th c.

Materials:  Hardwood "narra"?, cooking residue

Description:  This rare and gorgeous spatula is executed with astonishing grace and craftsmanship!  The seated Bulul figure is carved with maximum negative space through its elongated body.  Miraculously, this piece has one of the finest untouched deep patinas I've ever seen-- all natural.  Its rich luster was achieved simply by generations of use and handling-- its 100% honest.  No stain, wax or varnished has ever touched this piece.  In excellent condition.

Dimensions:   Height 13.75"  (35 cm), Width 2.5"  (6.5 cm)

Price: SOLD