Hatchet "ligua" or "liwa" ·  Philippines - Northern Luzon, Kalinga tribe · ID: 3043361

Description

wooden shaft wrapped with metal sheet, iron blade of typical shape, min. dam., small missing parts, slight traces of corrosion.
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.

Comparing literature

Moltzau-Anderson, Eric, In the shape of tradition, Leiden 2010, p. 346 ff.