RARE AUTHENTIC "PANGALAPANG" IFUGAO SHELL STATUS NECKLACE

Origin:  N. Philippines, Luzon, Ifugao people    (Provenance:  Ex. Burton Holt- Seattle, Ex. Collection of Floy Quintos- Manilla)

Period/Date: Early 20th century

Materials:  Rattan, pearl shell, Dog tooth, fiber

Description:  In my career of selling Philippine Art I've only had one other example which I could say with absolute certainty that it was authentic.  These iconic Ifugao prestige neck ornaments, most often worn by woman, are one of the most reproduced pieces of Philippine art.  This old example, however, is a very pure specimen fashioned with large thick chunks of irregular hand cut pear shell.  According to Roberto Maramba in his seminal book "Form and Splendor" he states, "The pectoral is worn tied close about the neck to form a fan of gleaming light.  The shell chokers function is to impress- as status symbol.  The scarcity of large pieces of mother of pearl in these parts, plus the difficulties entailed in grinding, drilling and polishing with primitive tools insured its prestige- limiting its use to the elite and very wealthy."  In very good condition retaining its dog tooth toggle closure.

Dimensions:   Overall Height 11"  (28 cm), Width 9.5"  (24 cm)

Price: $1900       Currency Conversion     FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!

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