Tinguian Shield w/ Pokerwork Lizard Motif

Description

This style of Tinguian Shield began appearing around 1900-1910 after the American occupation which ended headhunting practices. It was likely used as a dance shield. It features a prominant relief-carved lizard on the central boss and is embellished with burned pokerwork decoration (Note: The actual wood of the shield is darker than the photos suggest and so is its patina). The center raiser post appears to depict a whimsical pair of snake or insects heads. I've had three of this type of shield over the years and this one is the best thus far. Examples of this quality are very hard to find.

Origin: Philippines, N. Luzon, Tinguian People