MOTHER OF PEARL TRIBAL ARTS BONTOC IGOROT (150 mm ) 

5.90 INCHES" Traditional Mother Of Pearl Belt Ornament (Philippines) mounted onto the belt  of male warrior tribe in the NORTH PHILIPPINES also known as the tikam or fikamikam or hip / waist ornament from the Bontoc People, Igorot group in the Philippines. The Tikam or Fikam as it is sometimes called is a large engraved gold lipped oyster worn at the waist area (in front or one of the sides) by elite males of the Bontoc tribe. The shell is engraved around the edge with a geometric “minamais” or corn design, basketry weaving patterns and incised line work resembling textile and tattoo patterns, and it has a button in the center made from coconut.stunning Tikam or hip / waist ornament from the Bontoc People, Igorot group in the Philippines. . Many of the Philippine tribes engaged in the practice of head hunting until the influence of Christianity was allied to their traditional animist beliefs. Head hunting in the Cordilleras was for religious purposes, such as the desire for an abundant harvest, or the acquisition of magical powers, such as to promote fertility in women, as well as a matter of honor.  The death of a fellow tribesman was avenged by taking the head of a member of the killer's group, resulting in a vicious circle of revenge and war that could last for years. The undertaking of an expedition involved considerable ritual and the observance of omens. It would be on such special ceremonial occasions that the elite male members of the tribe would wear the Tikam, as a status symbol of great importance.