SUPERB N. PHILIPPINE FOOD LADLE WITH SEATED FIGURE

Origin:  Philippines, N. Luzon, Kankanay or Ifugao?   (Provenance:  Ex. Hirofumi Kobayashi Collection Japan.  The Kobayashi collection is well known and in fact a number of his pieces are published.  Hiro established himself in the 1960s as a noted commercial fashion photographer in Paris.  In 1969 on a trip to Calcutta he was so moved by the sight of bodies being cremated near the Ganges that he abandoned his career.  For 30 years after that he photographed "death rituals" among the hill tribes of the Philippines and built an impressive high quality collection of Philippine material culture.)

Period/Date: Early 20th century

Materials:  Hardwood

Description:  This superb ladle is executed with astonishing grace and craftsmanship!  It was not a daily use ladle but was rather used for important occasions or to serve special guests.  The seated Bulul figure is seen wearing an "oklop" helmet and its body is carved with maximum negative space.  Its handle has a very elegant curvature with a lovely transition into the bowl which rests at a soft angle.  Most ladles I've seen have an oversized clunky "hanging hole" raising like a doughnut on top of the figure's head.  This one (with some slight loss) has subtle proportions and was cleverly positioned by the artist parallel to the face, thus diminishing its impact on the piece overall.  All of these combined features make this a truly refined example. The side of the bowl and part of the rim are especially worn from coming into contact with a wooden serving bowl.  In good condition with a dark varied patina.  Presented on a custom wood and metal display stand.

Dimensions:   Height 15 3/8"  (39 cm), Width 4"  (10 cm)

Price: SOLD