Ifugao people
Luzon, Philippines  

Ritual box in the form of a pig [punamham] 19th century
wood
14.0 (h) x 39.5 (w) x 14.0 (d) cm
Fowler Museum at University of California, Los Angeles
Anonymous Gift
Photograph: Don Cole

Animist communities of the northern Philippines create fine wooden vessels for religious rites and for celebratory feasts sponsored by wealthy families. The lidded receptacle in the shape of a stylised two-headed pig once held ingredients used by village priests in rituals.