Hatchet "ligua" or "liwa"
Philippines - Northern Luzon, Kalinga tribe
not available anymore
Size
L: 64 cm
L: 25.2 inch
Description
wooden shaft with brass nozzle and animal horn, mortized wooden shaft encased in iron, iron blade of typical form, slightly dam., cracks (handle);
the “ligua” was worn inserted into the waistcloth. The cutting edge was sized and shaped specifically to sever a head. The long spike at the back was used to pick up the severed head and puncture the cranium, thereby letting the blood drain out. However the hatchet also serves as a tool for cutting and other purposes. For example, the spike can be planted in the ground when climbing a hill.