Malanggan Figure

This carved, wooden bird sculpture was used in Malanggan commemorative and memorial ceremonies for the dead. Ancestral worship is present in all aspects of their daily life through prayers and offerings. Painted and carved sculptures representative of the dead preside over Malanggan ceremonies. In Malanggan ceremonies, prestige is acquired by those who organize the event. They also gain blessings as the spirits are satisfied and give them a good harvest. During this festival, gifts are exchanged and social, political, and economic bonds are strengthened.