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.
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