Lot: 181

99th Auction

Figurally carved spoon

Philippines - Ifugao, circle / Workshop of Tagiling from Kababuyan

Provenance Size Starting price / estimated price
American Private Collection H: 6.8 inch 1500 EUR
plus 27 % commission, VAT, transport and insurance

horn,

The facial features and body of this figure are worked out in striking
detail, naturalistic tendencies (collar bone, hands, toes) are recognizable. Particular care was also taken on the back of the figurine / spoon.

This skillful work comes from a master carver, possibly from the circle / workshop of Tagiling from Kababuyan.

Ifugao spoons ("pakko", "idu") are stored in special baskets ("ayud") when not in use and males carry them in their hip bags while away from home.

The majority of spoons depict either seated or standing human figures, sometimes referred to as ancestor figures or deities.


Casino, Eric S., The people and art of the Philippines, Los Angeles 1981, ill. 184