"Kalasag" Bagobo Shield

These types of oblong shields were used by the so-called pagan groups in the Philippines and were usually adorned with inlaid seashells or engrained with black geometric patterns. The edges and, as in this case, the central boss, were decorated with the human hair of the Bagobo's dead enemies.
These carved motifs may also be found on other objects made by this group, such as various bamboo containers, clothes, and musical instruments. These objects are a symbolic representation of their world: the community is shown in an abstract image of its members joined by their hands and feet; and their dwellings, animals, the lightning, clouds, sun, moon, and stars, all of which formed an important part of their animist beliefs.
This exemplary piece was part of the Philippines General Exhibition, which took place in Parque del Retiro in Madrid, 1887.