Southeast Asia, Philippines, Ifugao, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A fascinating and rare wooden ritual box with a lid, known as a punamhan, used by the Ifugao in rituals in which a productive cultivation of rice was invoked. Carved with a pair of stylized pig or dog heads on each end that double as handles, the vessel contains remnants of ritual practices in which this object was used, including a pair of bird feet with talons (likely from the rufous-bellied eagle), rope made from twisted human hair, domesticated pig's tail, remains of pakhuy (unhusked rice), momah (betel nut palm, Areca cathecu), cut runo (Miscanthus chinensis), stone amulets, and rooster feathers. After each ritual performed, ritual accessories were left behind in the box. The dark patina of the wood is likely a result of bloodletting ceremonies performed with this container. Size: 6.8" L x 20.8" W x 9.3" H (17.3 cm x 52.8 cm x 23.6 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010; ex-Loed & Mia van Bussel, Amsterdam, Netherlands collection

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#184533

Old repair to lid. Some chipping and splintering to rim and sides of lid, and nicks and abrasions to surface, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, box is intact and all is in good condition. Covered in thick patina from likely ritual use.