Pair of 19th C. Philippine Headhunter Tinguian War Shields, Fighting Shield

Description

I'm pleased to be offering this PAIR of Tinguain headhunter war shields fresh to the market from an old Vermont estate. What is special about them is that they are very early and each is an excellent example of its type. The one on the left features painted tattoo decoration which would have signified rank, status and battle achievements and would have also appeared on the warriors for arms. There is a very nice native rattan mend to a hairline crack on the left leg which shows it was an important piece to its original owner. The shield is striking and accented with bold black paint. The shield on the right is equally of high quality indicative of old world craftsmanship. It is elegantly carved and thin. The raised central boss is grooved in the center which is a subtle yet pleasing feature. Most importantly, it has three bands of rattan binding on the top and bottom. It is common to see shields with two bands but seldom with three. This was a true fighting shield and was meant to hold up under a lot of trauma, spears and sword blows. These shields are in excellent and original condition with all of their binding intact!

Origin: Northern Luzon, Tinguian People