Philippine Kalinga War Shield, a Large Classic Example

Description

A superb traditional shield of "large proportion" dating to the 19th century. Its angular shape resembles a highly stylized human form. The shield is of course, battle scarred, but what makes it special is that ALL of its original rattan binding is still intact which is a very important feature on these shields! Even 4 of its 5 post legs still have its rattan band present. There is an old naive label on the front which reads “Somoa Isl. War Shield 1900”. It can be easily removed but I've left in there as found. There is no question it has seen combat. The top left post broke at some point near the edge of the binding and received resin/glue and a stitched repair (which appears to be native) restoring its integrity. The lower left leg has been chewed and blacked with pitch. A Kalinga warrior can be seen in the last photo holding a similar shield.

Origin: Philippines, N. Luzon, Kalinga People