Bulul Figure
Ifugao, Philippines
Early 20th Century

PROVENANCE: Susan Lerer Collection, Los Angeles. Acquired in 1980, then by family descent.

Bulul figures are spiritual guardians of rice granaries and are an important element in the rituals and beliefs surrounding the Ifugao agricultural cycle. This figure is depicted in a traditional Ifugao crouched position, with arms crossed over the knees. The precision and carefully carved lines used to delineate the figure's features, hands, and feet are emphasized by the object's rich dark red-brown patina. The figure's stare is contemplative and imposing, an exceptional example of these wooden guardians.

Height: 15 1/2 " in.
IN 6-1-14 / SOLD