nice catch on that one, Detlef! I would almost bet that the accoutrement is made out of braided human hair. I saw an ilongot sword scabbard one time that has braided human hair as part of decoration. granted, those two tribes are not close, but it seems like this was not uncommon back in the old days. I reckon they are taking with them a part of their loved ones with them wherever they go?
I have a moro spear that has human hair clippings tied close to the ferrule.
can't wait for you to repost this piece!