Luzon Spears

Nonoy Tan · 28th October 2007, 11:22 AM

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, 04:52 PM

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

Rick · 28th October 2007, 05:06 PM

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

Battara · 28th October 2007, 07:05 PM

Both appear to be a form of falfeg hunting spearheads.

Rick and Tim have good points.

Nonoy Tan · 29th October 2007, 03:15 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, 08:23 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, 09:34 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 · 29th October 2007, 11:27 PM

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, 10:17 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

Maurice · 25th January 2011, 08:16 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 · 25th January 2011, 11:33 PM

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

Bill M · 26th January 2011, 02:31 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

Sajen · 26th January 2011, 11:43 AM

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, 12:52 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, 01:32 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, 01:07 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.

Battara · 27th January 2011, 04:00 AM

These types of spears throw me because I have never seen them in the old turn of the century accounts. I think that the post-WWII attribution may be right, Nonoy Tan.

Robert · 27th January 2011, 04:54 AM

Hello, This finish is known as forge black. I learned about it originally from a blacksmith quite a few years ago.
After a quick on-line search I found this modern "How To". I hope that this might be of some help in possibly determining why these have their black appearance.

How To Achieve Forge Black Iron Rustproofing and Metal Finish

This metal finish is known among aficionados of forged iron metal work as FORGE BLACK,
and it derives from a technique dating back over a thousand years. This method is an
attractive finish and a very early method for the rust proofing of iron.

The metal is first meticulously cleaned with 00 emery cloth or steel wool,
then washed with denatured alcohol, shellac grade. This is to remove all grease and dirt.
Do this with clean cloth or paper gloves on so that further grease from handling is not deposited.

As soon as this is dry, coat with linseed oil by wiping, brushing or spraying.
Immediately heat over the forge with air flow applied. This adds free carbon to the burning oil
and an enamel like finish will eventually result, once the oil is all burned off.
Do not heat above black. When the piece stops smoking, remove, cool, and wipe with a cloth to
remove free soot. This leaves a good black finish and has been used for ages as an initial treatment
for iron, with defeat of rust as its main ideal.

Robert

Battara · 28th January 2011, 01:00 AM

Robert thanks - that makes a lot of sense. I can do this with my torch in a simpler way (and sometimes happens anyway) when working with iron or steel.

Nonoy Tan · 28th January 2011, 10:18 PM

Robert, thank you for sharing this information.

migueldiaz · 30th January 2011, 08:13 AM

nonoy, juynboll's 1920s catalogue has such a spear. in the description the only word i can recognize is "ifugao". maybe our dear dutch friends can help us out with the translation

Maurice · 30th January 2011, 09:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by migueldiaz

nonoy, juynboll's 1920s catalogue has such a spear. in the description the only word i can recognize is "ifugao". maybe our dear dutch friends can help us out with the translation

OK, not that spectacular, but here it is:
1878/21. The lancehead in the shape of the head of a fish, with bilateral barbs, the round shaft modifying in a standing human figure.
Wooden shaft from grey wood, the top thickened pear-shaped, inlaid with yellow copper strips, which forms humanfigures and a chain of triangles.
Iron ferrule, with crenated upperside, the lowerside with pointy, iron fittings.
Ifugaos. N.

Length head: 30,5, Width: 4,5, Length wooden shaft: 163, Diameter: 1,5-2,5 cm.
See plate X, fig. 3.

Nonoy Tan · 30th January 2011, 12:12 PM

I would dare to guess that the use of the Froge Black mentioned here by Robert would probably be more applicable to the Ifugao peoples in later years (e.g. post WW II) when the carrying of spears in daily life became less due to restrictions by law. Before that time (when the spears were omnipresent in daily life), the spear bearers/owners probably did not have to worry much about rust because they had the chance to clean the spears daily as a matter of routine. In later years, as the spears spent more time at home, unused and unattended, the application of the Forge Black became useful; and the spears would be used only during feasts or ceremonies, as they are nowadays. This is a general statement and does not mean that non-Forge Black spears are not being made these days, or that only Forge Black spears are made in later years. Still some job orders are received by blacksmiths in Ifugao for non-Forge Black spears, as thiese are preferrred by some. Indeed the variations in spear design and material (on spearheads, ferrules and shafts) among the Northern Luzon Cordillera peoples are so numerous, because these are dictated by personal preferences of the owners, imaginative talent of the blacksmiths, and economics.

migueldiaz · 30th January 2011, 12:15 PM

maurice, thanks for the translation!

Nonoy Tan · 30th January 2011, 01:08 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, 01:10 PM

Yet another Ifugao spear.

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

Nonoy Tan · 30th January 2011, 02:19 PM

Another spear with anthropomorphic figure...

Battara · 30th January 2011, 11:33 PM

Great catch and translation folks! Salamat!

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

28th October 2007, 11:22 AM	#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, 03:15 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, 09:34 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, 08:13 AM	#21
migueldiaz Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Manila, Phils. Posts: 1,042	nonoy, juynboll's 1920s catalogue has such a spear. in the description the only word i can recognize is "ifugao". maybe our dear dutch friends can help us out with the translation Attached Images

30th January 2011, 01:08 PM	#25
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

28th October 2007, 04:52 PM	#2
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,806	Can you tell us more about them, they look like ceremonial or special spears?

28th October 2007, 05:06 PM	#3
Rick Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 6,290	Looks like they may have been made for sale to "those who travel for pleasure."

28th October 2007, 07:05 PM	#4
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,218	Both appear to be a form of falfeg hunting spearheads. Rick and Tim have good points.

29th October 2007, 08:23 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

29th October 2007, 11:27 PM	#8
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,218	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, 10:17 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

25th January 2011, 11:33 PM	#11
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, 01:07 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.

27th January 2011, 04:00 AM	#17
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,218	These types of spears throw me because I have never seen them in the old turn of the century accounts. I think that the post-WWII attribution may be right, Nonoy Tan.

27th January 2011, 04:54 AM	#18
Robert EAAF Staff Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Centerville, Kansas Posts: 2,196	Hello, This finish is known as forge black. I learned about it originally from a blacksmith quite a few years ago. After a quick on-line search I found this modern "How To". I hope that this might be of some help in possibly determining why these have their black appearance. How To Achieve Forge Black Iron Rustproofing and Metal Finish This metal finish is known among aficionados of forged iron metal work as FORGE BLACK, and it derives from a technique dating back over a thousand years. This method is an attractive finish and a very early method for the rust proofing of iron. The metal is first meticulously cleaned with 00 emery cloth or steel wool, then washed with denatured alcohol, shellac grade. This is to remove all grease and dirt. Do this with clean cloth or paper gloves on so that further grease from handling is not deposited. As soon as this is dry, coat with linseed oil by wiping, brushing or spraying. Immediately heat over the forge with air flow applied. This adds free carbon to the burning oil and an enamel like finish will eventually result, once the oil is all burned off. Do not heat above black. When the piece stops smoking, remove, cool, and wipe with a cloth to remove free soot. This leaves a good black finish and has been used for ages as an initial treatment for iron, with defeat of rust as its main ideal. Robert

28th January 2011, 01:00 AM	#19
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,218	Robert thanks - that makes a lot of sense. I can do this with my torch in a simpler way (and sometimes happens anyway) when working with iron or steel.

28th January 2011, 10:18 PM	#20
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Robert, thank you for sharing this information.

30th January 2011, 12:12 PM	#23
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	I would dare to guess that the use of the Froge Black mentioned here by Robert would probably be more applicable to the Ifugao peoples in later years (e.g. post WW II) when the carrying of spears in daily life became less due to restrictions by law. Before that time (when the spears were omnipresent in daily life), the spear bearers/owners probably did not have to worry much about rust because they had the chance to clean the spears daily as a matter of routine. In later years, as the spears spent more time at home, unused and unattended, the application of the Forge Black became useful; and the spears would be used only during feasts or ceremonies, as they are nowadays. This is a general statement and does not mean that non-Forge Black spears are not being made these days, or that only Forge Black spears are made in later years. Still some job orders are received by blacksmiths in Ifugao for non-Forge Black spears, as thiese are preferrred by some. Indeed the variations in spear design and material (on spearheads, ferrules and shafts) among the Northern Luzon Cordillera peoples are so numerous, because these are dictated by personal preferences of the owners, imaginative talent of the blacksmiths, and economics.

30th January 2011, 12:15 PM	#24
migueldiaz Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Manila, Phils. Posts: 1,042	maurice, thanks for the translation!

30th January 2011, 01:10 PM	#26
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

30th January 2011, 02:19 PM	#27
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Another spear with anthropomorphic figure... Attached Images

30th January 2011, 11:33 PM	#28
Battara EAAF Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 7,218	Great catch and translation folks! Salamat! Nonoy Tan, love the carved shaft spear - now you make me want to get one.