Philippines, Island of Luzon, Tribe: Bontoc: A shell disc, known as a ‘fikum’, ‘tikam’ or ‘Kalibi’. Worn by Bontoc men on a belt as a status symbol.
Philippines, Island of Luzon, Tribe: Bontoc: A shell disc, known as a ‘fikum’, ‘tikam’ or ‘Kalibi’. Worn by Bontoc men on a belt as a status symbol.
A large, polished mother of pearl shell disc, with typical, black, geometric incised decorations along the outer rim. Such large mother of pearl-discs (from the ‘gold-lipped oyster’) were only worn on special occasions and festivals as a status symbol on belts by high level, outstanding warriors of the Bontoc of northern Luzon, the north island of the Philippines. These 'Fikum’ or 'Kalibi’ ornaments were polished, engraved, pierced through the centre and provided with a support made out of coconut discs.
A rare piece with good, old usage patina (the string attached to the support is a younger replacement). A minimal tear.
First third of the 20th century; DM: c. 18.5 cm. (ME)
Specialist: Erwin Melchardt
Erwin Melchardt
+43-1-515 60-465
erwin.melchardt@dorotheum.at
26.05.2015 - 15:00
- Estimate:
-
EUR 800.- to EUR 1,000.-
Philippines, Island of Luzon, Tribe: Bontoc: A shell disc, known as a ‘fikum’, ‘tikam’ or ‘Kalibi’. Worn by Bontoc men on a belt as a status symbol.
A large, polished mother of pearl shell disc, with typical, black, geometric incised decorations along the outer rim. Such large mother of pearl-discs (from the ‘gold-lipped oyster’) were only worn on special occasions and festivals as a status symbol on belts by high level, outstanding warriors of the Bontoc of northern Luzon, the north island of the Philippines. These 'Fikum’ or 'Kalibi’ ornaments were polished, engraved, pierced through the centre and provided with a support made out of coconut discs.
A rare piece with good, old usage patina (the string attached to the support is a younger replacement). A minimal tear.
First third of the 20th century; DM: c. 18.5 cm. (ME)
Specialist: Erwin Melchardt
Erwin Melchardt
+43-1-515 60-465
erwin.melchardt@dorotheum.at
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| Auction: | Tribal Art |
| Auction type: | Saleroom auction |
| Date: | 26.05.2015 - 15:00 |
| Location: | Vienna | Palais Dorotheum |
| Exhibition: | 20.05. - 26.05.2015 |