Luzon Spears

Nonoy Tan · 28th October 2007, 12:22 PM

Here is a pair of interesting spears from Barlig, Eastern Bontoc (post WWII). One displays a male anthopomorphic figure and the other a female, complete with genitalia

[IMG]

Tim Simmons · 28th October 2007, 05:52 PM

Can you tell us more about them, they look like ceremonial or special spears?

Rick · 28th October 2007, 06:06 PM

Looks like they may have been made for sale to "those who travel for pleasure."

Battara · 28th October 2007, 08:05 PM

Both appear to be a form of falfeg hunting spearheads.

Rick and Tim have good points.

Nonoy Tan · 29th October 2007, 04:15 AM

"Male" spear, thickness of blade at the median = 7.98mm, height of the man = 112.0mm

"Female" spear, thickness of blade at the median = 7.39mm, height of the woman = 101.0mm

The anthropomorphic figures are metal and appear to have been made through casting (from moulds) or though tedious hammering/filing. Because I do not see visible signs of hammering/filing, I suspect casting, which has been practiced in Northern Luzon for ages (e.g. manufacture of brass pipes for smoking). The bended arms may have been made separately (i.e. using a separate mould) and then connected to the bodies. Either way, it appears that a lot of work was involved to create them. That effort would have been economically viable for the blacksmith if (a) the owner was wealthy enough to pay for it, or (b) the blacksmith can mass-produce the item for the tourist trade.

My research reveal that ... in the past, a wealthy male of Northern Luzon would typically have several types/designs of spears in his possession - some for hunting, defense or battle, ceremonial (i.e. warding off evil spirits), etc. Intricately made spears (or other bladed weapons such as axes) were also made to display social status.

Are these spears representative of the desciption above or are they tourist stuff? If somebody in the forum has acquired a similar item or has seen some, then that can provide clues. In my last two visits to the Luzon Cordillera this year, I have not found such items being sold in the souvenir shops or in stores selling fake antiques. That is why I find this pair of spears very interesting.

In Ifugao, this type of spear is called "Balabog", "Balbog" or "Palbog" - probably an old word for the "Falfeg". The "F", "B" and "P" are sometimes interchanged between groups of peoples in the Northern Luzon.

By the way, here is a photo of another spear with an anthropomorphic figure (siamese). This one shows signs of hammering. It is less intricate and less controversial.

[IMG]

Nonoy Tan · 29th October 2007, 09:23 AM

The multiple barbed spear is also from Barlig, Eastern Bontoc (Northern Luzon, Philippines). It features a double anthropomorphic figure (like "siamese twins). It is not from from Siam

Bill M · 29th October 2007, 10:34 AM

Here is a link to a post and discussion of an old spear head in my collection. I did find and purchase the book.

http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...hlight=kalinga

Battara · 30th October 2007, 12:27 AM

What I was refering to was the possibility of ceremonial which was mentioned above. You bring up some other good points on the hammering and work. My personal view is that these are more ceremonial in nature. Separate male and female goes in line with some Igorot mythologies of the creator spirits, one male and one female (I forget which group).

Nonoy Tan · 30th October 2007, 11:17 AM

Thanks Battara. I too have read about the use of spears in certain rituals (from the books "The Bontoc Igorot" and "The Tingguian") but do not recall the mention of male and female anthropomorphic figures in the spears. Apparently, I must re-read the books and do more research. Coincidentally, the Bululs (or rice Gods) sometimes come in pairs (male and female) as well.

Bill, does the book mention the meaning or symbolism of the anthropomorphic figure on the spear?

Nonoy

Bill M · 26th January 2011, 03:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nonoy Tan

Thanks Battara. I too have read about the use of spears in certain rituals (from the books "The Bontoc Igorot" and "The Tingguian") but do not recall the mention of male and female anthropomorphic figures in the spears. Apparently, I must re-read the books and do more research. Coincidentally, the Bululs (or rice Gods) sometimes come in pairs (male and female) as well.

Bill, does the book mention the meaning or symbolism of the anthropomorphic figure on the spear?

Nonoy

Nonoy,
The book is in Dutch. But I don't believe it mentions the meaning or symbolism.
Bill

Maurice · 25th January 2011, 09:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nonoy Tan

Here is a pair of interesting spears from Barlig, Eastern Bontoc (post WWII). One displays a male anthopomorphic figure and the other a female, complete with genitalia

[IMG]

Nonoy,

Do you know why this metal look so dark in colour? (also the hammered one with the spikes you posted looks very dark in colour).

Kind Regards,
Maurice

VANDOO · 26th January 2011, 12:33 AM

I WOULD IMAGINE THEY ARE MADE BY FORGEING AND STOCK REMOVAL NOT CAST. LOOK FOR SEAMS OR WELDS TO SEE IF SEPARATE PIECES WERE ADDED OF IF ITS MADE FROM ONE PIECE OF METAL. MY BEST GUESS IS FOR CEREMONIAL USE PERHAPS FOR FERTILITY CEREMOINIES FOR CROPS OR MARRIAGE CEREMONIES.
NICE AND UNUSUAL NOT LIKELY A TOURIST ITEM I BASE THIS ON THE FACT I HAVEN'T SEEN A LOT OF THEM OVER THE YEARS. IF THERE WERE A LOT OF THEM AROUND I WOULD HAVE ONE

Sajen · 26th January 2011, 12:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Maurice

Nonoy,

Do you know why this metal look so dark in colour? (also the hammered one with the spikes you posted looks very dark in colour).

Kind Regards,
Maurice

Hello Maurice,

maybe the spear points are etched traditionally, one of my bontoc spears have the same dark colour. The other one I have has had the same colour but was also very rusty so I have sanded it carefully.

Best regards,

Detlef

Maurice · 26th January 2011, 01:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sajen

Hello Maurice,

maybe the spear points are etched traditionally, one of my bontoc spears have the same dark colour. The other one I have has had the same colour but was also very rusty so I have sanded it carefully.

Best regards,

Detlef

Hello Detlef,

On images of igoroth spears out of old collections, or museumpieces, the spearheads all have the usual "average" colour.
I was thinking they might start making them dark about a certain period.
Maybe it is possible to tell more about the age of these spears according to the (latter?) black colour..??

Kind Regards,
Maurice

Sajen · 26th January 2011, 02:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Maurice

Hello Detlef,

On images of igoroth spears out of old collections, or museumpieces, the spearheads all have the usual "average" colour.
I was thinking they might start making them dark about a certain period.
Maybe it is possible to tell more about the age of these spears according to the (latter?) black colour..??

Kind Regards,
Maurice

Maybe Nonoy know something about this?

My both spears are definitely old, they have a good old patination but of course I don't know how old, I don't have a provenance.

Kind regards,

Detlef

Nonoy Tan · 27th January 2011, 02:07 AM

The black colouration on the pair of spears (with male and female anthropomorphic figures) could be the result of staining. On the other hand, the dark colouration on the spear with multiple barbs could be the result of old rust and application of used motor oil (which is a common practice among the locals) in the past.

Maurice, your idea of making the metal darker as a result of the forging process (or type of raw material) is a real possibility in my opinion. My guess is that this would likely occur post WWII.

Bill, thank you for the feedback.

Nonoy Tan · 30th January 2011, 02:08 PM

Thank you migueldiaz and Maurice!

Here is another spear, which was also apparently made for ceremonial use. The blade is obviously attached to the anthromorphic figure (i.e. the blade and figure are not a single piece). The figure is made of brass while the blade is made of iron. Also, the brass figure is covered with stain and/or dried pig's blood (which happens after use in ceremonies). Probably a late 20th century Ifugao piece.

Nonoy Tan · 30th January 2011, 02:10 PM

Yet another Ifugao spear.

Here the anthropomorphic figures are carved on the wooden shaft, also for ceremonial use.

Nonoy Tan · 30th January 2011, 03:19 PM

Another spear with anthropomorphic figure...

Battara · 31st January 2011, 12:33 AM

Great catch and translation folks! Salamat!

Nonoy Tan, love the carved shaft spear - now you make me want to get one.

28th October 2007, 12:22 PM	#1
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Luzon Spears Here is a pair of interesting spears from Barlig, Eastern Bontoc (post WWII). One displays a male anthopomorphic figure and the other a female, complete with genitalia [IMG] Attached Images

29th October 2007, 04:15 AM	#5
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Tourist pieces? "Male" spear, thickness of blade at the median = 7.98mm, height of the man = 112.0mm "Female" spear, thickness of blade at the median = 7.39mm, height of the woman = 101.0mm The anthropomorphic figures are metal and appear to have been made through casting (from moulds) or though tedious hammering/filing. Because I do not see visible signs of hammering/filing, I suspect casting, which has been practiced in Northern Luzon for ages (e.g. manufacture of brass pipes for smoking). The bended arms may have been made separately (i.e. using a separate mould) and then connected to the bodies. Either way, it appears that a lot of work was involved to create them. That effort would have been economically viable for the blacksmith if (a) the owner was wealthy enough to pay for it, or (b) the blacksmith can mass-produce the item for the tourist trade. My research reveal that ... in the past, a wealthy male of Northern Luzon would typically have several types/designs of spears in his possession - some for hunting, defense or battle, ceremonial (i.e. warding off evil spirits), etc. Intricately made spears (or other bladed weapons such as axes) were also made to display social status. Are these spears representative of the desciption above or are they tourist stuff? If somebody in the forum has acquired a similar item or has seen some, then that can provide clues. In my last two visits to the Luzon Cordillera this year, I have not found such items being sold in the souvenir shops or in stores selling fake antiques. That is why I find this pair of spears very interesting. In Ifugao, this type of spear is called "Balabog", "Balbog" or "Palbog" - probably an old word for the "Falfeg". The "F", "B" and "P" are sometimes interchanged between groups of peoples in the Northern Luzon. By the way, here is a photo of another spear with an anthropomorphic figure (siamese). This one shows signs of hammering. It is less intricate and less controversial. [IMG] Attached Images

29th October 2007, 10:34 AM	#7
Bill M Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: USA Georgia Posts: 1,599	Here is a link to a post and discussion of an old spear head in my collection. I did find and purchase the book. http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...hlight=kalinga Attached Images

30th January 2011, 02:08 PM	#17
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Thank you migueldiaz and Maurice! Here is another spear, which was also apparently made for ceremonial use. The blade is obviously attached to the anthromorphic figure (i.e. the blade and figure are not a single piece). The figure is made of brass while the blade is made of iron. Also, the brass figure is covered with stain and/or dried pig's blood (which happens after use in ceremonies). Probably a late 20th century Ifugao piece. Attached Images

30th January 2011, 02:10 PM	#18
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Yet another Ifugao spear. Here the anthropomorphic figures are carved on the wooden shaft, also for ceremonial use. Attached Images

28th October 2007, 05:52 PM	#2
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,807	Can you tell us more about them, they look like ceremonial or special spears?

28th October 2007, 06:06 PM	#3
Rick Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 6,293	Looks like they may have been made for sale to "those who travel for pleasure."

28th October 2007, 08:05 PM	#4
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,220	Both appear to be a form of falfeg hunting spearheads. Rick and Tim have good points.

29th October 2007, 09:23 AM	#6
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	The multiple barbed spear is also from Barlig, Eastern Bontoc (Northern Luzon, Philippines). It features a double anthropomorphic figure (like "siamese twins). It is not from from Siam

30th October 2007, 12:27 AM	#8
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,220	What I was refering to was the possibility of ceremonial which was mentioned above. You bring up some other good points on the hammering and work. My personal view is that these are more ceremonial in nature. Separate male and female goes in line with some Igorot mythologies of the creator spirits, one male and one female (I forget which group).

30th October 2007, 11:17 AM	#9
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Thanks Battara. I too have read about the use of spears in certain rituals (from the books "The Bontoc Igorot" and "The Tingguian") but do not recall the mention of male and female anthropomorphic figures in the spears. Apparently, I must re-read the books and do more research. Coincidentally, the Bululs (or rice Gods) sometimes come in pairs (male and female) as well. Bill, does the book mention the meaning or symbolism of the anthropomorphic figure on the spear? Nonoy

26th January 2011, 12:33 AM	#12
VANDOO (deceased) Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: OKLAHOMA, USA Posts: 3,138	I WOULD IMAGINE THEY ARE MADE BY FORGEING AND STOCK REMOVAL NOT CAST. LOOK FOR SEAMS OR WELDS TO SEE IF SEPARATE PIECES WERE ADDED OF IF ITS MADE FROM ONE PIECE OF METAL. MY BEST GUESS IS FOR CEREMONIAL USE PERHAPS FOR FERTILITY CEREMOINIES FOR CROPS OR MARRIAGE CEREMONIES. NICE AND UNUSUAL NOT LIKELY A TOURIST ITEM I BASE THIS ON THE FACT I HAVEN'T SEEN A LOT OF THEM OVER THE YEARS. IF THERE WERE A LOT OF THEM AROUND I WOULD HAVE ONE

27th January 2011, 02:07 AM	#16
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	The black colouration on the pair of spears (with male and female anthropomorphic figures) could be the result of staining. On the other hand, the dark colouration on the spear with multiple barbs could be the result of old rust and application of used motor oil (which is a common practice among the locals) in the past. Maurice, your idea of making the metal darker as a result of the forging process (or type of raw material) is a real possibility in my opinion. My guess is that this would likely occur post WWII. Bill, thank you for the feedback.

30th January 2011, 03:19 PM	#19
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Another spear with anthropomorphic figure... Attached Images

31st January 2011, 12:33 AM	#20
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,220	Great catch and translation folks! Salamat! Nonoy Tan, love the carved shaft spear - now you make me want to get one.