A Philippines helmet

OKLOP, NORTH CENTRAL IFUGAO

Details
A Philippines helmet
Oklop, North Central Ifugao
Of hemispherical form, the mask to one side with features carved in relief, the eyes recessed, dark glossy patina
5in. (13cm.) high

Lot Essay

George Ellis (1981, p.239) states: Bowl-shaped wooden hats are made in eastern Bontoc, especially in Balig, Lias, and Talubin. These are generally not decorated, but those (oklop) produced in north central Ifugao sometimes have facial features added. Especially prevalent in the Ifugao barrios of Kambulo and Batad, they are worn while hunting, working in the forest, or traveling and may be used as a container for food or water when necessary. The carving is said to be purely ornamental, and has no religious or ceremonial significance.

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