Large Bontoc Kalinga Barbed Warrior Spear (Falfeg)
Description
Period: Late 19th – early 20th century.
Origin: Cordillera Central, Northern Luzon, Philippines.
Primary use among Bontok, Ifugao, and Kalinga highland communities (Mountain Province, Ifugao Province, Kalinga Province areas).
Provenance: US Market, Provenance Documented.
Materials: Hand-forged iron single-barbed spearhead and conical butt cap, tropical dark hardwood shaft,
Description & Features
An imposing and authentic single-barbed spear of the type known as falfeg (Bontok) or balabog (Ifugao). This is the classic highland fighting and hunting form carried by warriors across the Cordillera.
Large leaf-shaped iron blade with one prominent functional barb
Long, heavy cylindrical hardwood shaft with rich dark patina from generations of use
Conical iron butt cap creating a sharp secondary point – used to plant the spear upright in rice terraces while working, as a walking staff on steep trails, or as an emergency weapon
Total length approx. 185 cm (true large “warrior” size)
Substantial, well-balanced weight
Cultural Significance
The single-barbed falfeg/balabog was prized for community defense, inter-village conflict, hunting large game, and ritual use. The barb ensured the blade remained lodged in the target. Like all Cordillera spears, it was also an everyday tool: driven into the ground beside the owner in the fields or used as a sturdy staff when carrying heavy loads over mountain paths. Rare multi-barbed variants (e.g., Bontok sinalawitan) were believed to offer spiritual protection, while this clean single-barb form represents the standard yet highly respected armament of highland men.
Condition
Excellent honest antique condition for a functional artifact of this age. Heavy use with no repairs or restoration. Deep glossy patina, expected age cracks and shrinkage splits in the wood, light scratches, minor edge wear to blade and barb – all adding to its authenticity and character.
A powerful and museum-worthy example for serious collectors of Philippine indigenous material culture, Southeast Asian ethnographic weapons, or Oceanic tribal art. Only large size for sale, other items are props.
