Description:

Southeast Asia, northern Philippines, Ifugao province, ca. 19th century CE. A fascinating artifact from the native people of the island of Ifugao, who prior to contact with the western world - which mainly occurred during the American occupation of the island during WWII - practiced a traditional life of headhunting. Human jaw bones like this one were acquired as trophies during tribal wars between neighboring villages. Gongs decorated with these trophies could only be played during certain ceremonies and by certain powerful people within the society. These musical instruments are known as "gangsa" and were treasured family heirlooms. Using the jaw bone as a handle was believed to give the gong a greater resonance. This example also has a woven black and white textile through two holes on its lower front for suspension. Size: 4.25" W x 2.85" H (10.8 cm x 7.2 cm); 9.4" H (23.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection; ex-Galeria Cano collection, Bogota, Colombia; previously on display at the TAOID Museum, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

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#148654

  • Condition: Dark, rich patina on surface. Most of the teeth are missing but that may have occurred before it became a gong. Woven cord is frayed at the edges.

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September 5, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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