Igorot head-hunting axe

Measurements
length: 18"
head (edge to spike): 6 1/2"
cutting edge: 5 1/2"
ferrule shaft: 6"
wood grip: 6 3/4"
weight: 1 lb 14 oz

Fighting and hunting axe of the Igorot head-hunters of Luzon. This particular type is a central/southern version, likely from the from the Bontoc people. Several Luzon tribes actively practiced head hunting up until the 1940's. Here are two articles on the practice:

http://www.seasite.niu.edu/crossroads/russell/headhunting.htm

http://www.csuchico.edu/~cheinz/syllabi/asst001/spring99/olivarez/Olivarez/OLIVAREZ.htm

10/18/02

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