SUPERB 19TH C. IFUGAO SPOON W/ COPULATING COUPLE

Origin:  Northern Luzon,  Ifugao or Bontoc tribe     (Provenance:  Ex. Scott McCue Tribal Art and Photography, Orinda California.  Originally acquired from an antique dealer in the Midwest)

Period/Date: Not later than 1910, likely 19th century

Materials: Hardwood

Description:  This magnificent spoon has two figures in an intimate embrace (possibly copulating) and is presented on a custom metal stand.  It has a number of distinguishing features which make it a great example.  Its compact bowl and has an extreme curvature, the two figures have especially elongated sensitively carved torsos, but most importantly the male figure is subtly defined with pecked warrior tattooing around the ankles and wrists!  In addition, the male has faint peck marks around the mouth, chin and brow region.   Spoons with two figures do occur in the Ifugao carving traditions but are quite rare to see of this quality.  They were used on special occasions, ceremonies and sometime given as gifts. It has acquired a warm varied brown patina from age and repeated handling.  There is some old loss to the left rim and tip of the bowl as might be expected on a piece of this vintage.

Dimensions:   Height 6.75"  (17 cm), Width 2.25"  (5.5 cm)

Price:   $1400        Currency Conversion      FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!

In various photos like this one you can make out the pecked tattooing around the ankles and wrists