This remarkable item is an oversized Fikum or Tikam, a prominent feature among the head-hunting Bontoc tribe residing in Northern Luzon, Philippines. Worn at the waist, either in front or on one side by the tribe's men, it consists of a large engraved gold-lipped oyster shell. The perimeter of the shell showcases intricate geometric designs, locally referred to as minamais, inspired by traditional tattoo art. Positioned at the center is a coconut shell disc. Comparable to the exquisite shell necklace worn by the Ifugao people in Mayaoyao, this serves as its counterpart ? a prestigious ornament denoting high status, exclusively possessed by a select few within the tribe and typically reserved for special occasions.Reference: ?Form & Splendor? by Roberto Maramba, pp 60 ? 65. Rarely offered...18 x 17 x 2 cm, 315 gram. Careful registered sending.

Reserve: $80.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $30.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

European Union: Flat-rate of $20.00 to anywhere in European Union.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from The Netherlands.

Your purchase is protected:
Photos, descriptions, and estimates were prepared with the utmost care by a fully certified expert and appraiser. All items in this sale are guaranteed authentic.

In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.