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Dungdung (a)

LOCAL NAME:

Dungdung (a)

ENGLISH NAME:

Headdress

DESCRIPTION:

A headpiece crafted from brass figurines, specifically designed for Ifugao kadangyan (affluent) women.

COMMONLY USED BY/IN:

Ifugao

MATERIAL COMPOSITION:

Copper, Beads, Feather, Wood

ITEM CONSTRUCTION:

Metalworks, Wood carving, Beadwork

DIMENSIONS:

Base
Length: 14 cm
Width: 5 cm

Anthropomorphic figure Height: 9 cm

Feather
Height: 10 cm

ACQUISITION YEAR:

2021

DISPLAY STATUS:

BURC

RESEARCH DATA:

Known as the dungdung, this headpiece features a small brass anthropomorphic male figure with arms outstretched in a dancing position, mounted on a carved wood miniature hagabi (prestige bench). Reserved for special occasions, particularly the uya-uy ritual (marriage) in Kiangan, Ifugao, the dungdung is delicately placed atop the heads of affluent women. This ceremonial adornment is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs, signifying fertility and serving as a status symbol for the women who wear it. The use of dungdung is limited to significant events such as the uya-uy ceremony and the funeral of a kadangyan (wealthy) woman.

REFERENCES:

Maramba, R. (1998). Form and Splendor: Personal Adornment of Northern Luzon Ethnic Group. Manila: Bookmark, Inc.

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