Rare Kalinga Bontoc Multi-Barbed Spear (Sinalawitan Type)

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: Ex-private USA collection
Materials: Hand-forged iron multi-barbed (4 prominent barbs) spearhead and conical butt cap, tropical dark hardwood shaft with decorative metal inlay banding on grip, traditional iron or woven rattan ferrule.

Description & Features
A rare and striking multi-barbed spear of the prized sinalawitan type (Bontok) – distinguished by its four strong, symmetrical barbs (two pairs). This is one of the most visually dramatic and spiritually significant spear forms carried in the Cordillera.

Large leaf-shaped iron blade with four functional barbs arranged in opposing pairs
Long, heavy cylindrical hardwood shaft showing rich, deep patina from generations of handling
Decorative metal inlay along the grip section
Conical iron butt cap forming a sharp secondary point – used to plant the spear upright in rice terraces while working, as a walking staff on steep mountain trails, or as an additional weapon
Total length approx. 185 cm (true large “warrior” size with commanding presence)
Substantial, perfectly balanced weight

Cultural Significance
Among the Bontok, spears with multiple pairs of barbs are called sinalawitan and are considered especially powerful. The dramatic barbs not only made the weapon devastating in combat and effective for hunting, but were also believed to ward off malevolent anito (spirits) and offer spiritual protection to the bearer. Such spears were carried by respected men during times of conflict, on long journeys, and in ceremonies. Like all highland spears, it doubled as a practical tool: planted in the ground beside the owner in the fields or used as a staff when carrying heavy loads across rugged terrain. This four-barb example sits between the common single-barb falfeg/balabog and the extremely rare ten-plus-barb sinalawitan, making it a highly desirable and meaningful piece.

Condition
Excellent honest antique condition for a functional artifact of this age and rarity. Heavy use with no repairs or restoration. Deep dark patina, expected age cracks and minor shrinkage splits in the wood, light surface scratches, edge wear to blade and barbs – all adding to its authentic character and mountain provenance.
A powerful, rare, and museum-worthy example for serious collectors of Philippine indigenous material culture, Southeast Asian ethnographic weapons, or Oceanic tribal art. Only the multi-barbed  spear is for sale; other items in photos are display props.