BONTOC WOODEN KUPIT BOX WITH OLD NATIVE MENDS
Origin:
Period/Date: Late 19th- Very Early 20th Century
Materials: Hardwood
Description: This elegant lidded "saddle" shape box called a "Kupit" was used for carrying rice and other food to the fields for lunch. This example has a relief-carved pierced lug on each side of the lid and two pierced holes on its base where a rattan carrying strap would have been laced through. Most "kupits" were made of woven rattan and had "nested" compartments which could be used for tobacco supplies, matches, other items or valuables. There are two native wooden mends showing it was a cherished and well-cared for piece. The upper left lug has been skillfully carved and replaced as well as the top rim of the bottom base (see arrows). It shows significant age and long use.
A photo of a Bontoc Male carrying a "Kupit" can be seen below and is taken from page 127 figure 4.22 "Basketry of the Luzon Cordillera, Philippines", the UCLA Fowler Museum.
Dimensions: Height 5.75" (14.5 cm), Width 8.5" (21.5 cm)
Price: $700 Currency Conversion FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!
Related example seen in "Native Arts of Luzon"
127 figure 4.22 "Basketry of the Luzon Cordillera, Philippines", the UCLA Fowler Museum
