Inventory no.: 4392

Rare & Elaborate Taribong Hilt, Panay Bukidnon People, central Panay Island, Visayan Islands, the Philippines, early 20th century

SOLD

Rare & Elaborate Wooden Taribong Sword Hilt

Panay Bukidnon People, central Panay Island, Visayan Islands, Philippines

early 20th century

length: 29.4cm

Not only is this sword hilt relatively rare in that it is from the Panay Bukidnon people of central Panay Island in the Visayan group in the Philippines, it is also an excellent example. Modelled as a mythical naga-type creature, it has an unusually long, curved shout which is intact and not shortened, chipped or broken as other extant examples sometimes are.

The hilt has a faceted grip, and is carved with bands and fields of Islamic-inspired vegetal motifs.

The hilt has good colour and patina from age and use. It is a fine item – rare and sculptural. It stands upright, unaided. There are no losses and no repairs.

References

Fernando-Amilbangsa, L., Visual Arts of the Sulu Archipelago, Ateneo de Manila University Press, 2005.

Provenance

private collection, UK

Inventory no.: 4392

SOLD