TALIBONG HILTS: The aesthetics of bladed art

Intimidating, detailed, and steeped in history are the hilts of the Talibong. The intricate carvings and decorations seen in the handles of these blades reflect multiple influences and a world view that draws a close connection between the individual and the environment.

Most of the documented artisans who carve the hilt and sheaths of the Talibong are farmers who have learned the skill and knowledge of carving these pieces from their grandfathers, fathers, and uncles. From these clans of artisans come the various patterns and designs, which are observed and carried on by the younger generations.

The craftsmen use a number of simple tools in carving, which include an ordinary bolo, a sharp knife, and a chisel. Wood from Narra (𝘗𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘶𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘴), Jackfruit (𝘈𝘳𝘵𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘶𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘺𝘭𝘭𝘶𝘴), and Santol (𝘚𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘮 𝘬𝘰𝘦𝘵𝘫𝘢𝘱𝘦) are the raw materials usually used for making the hilt. Another preferred material is the horn of the Carabao (𝘉𝘶𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴) which should be at least 15 years old, as younger Carabao’s horns have larger hollow cavities.

Traditional designs seen in antique samples of Talibong include the 𝘉𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘢𝘨, a design characterized by a long curved horn that resembles the coconut rhinoceros beetle (𝘖𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘳𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘴). Akeanons generally refer to beetles as bangag, hence the name of the design. Another design is the 𝘛𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘬𝘦𝘰𝘯, from the Akeanon word 𝘵𝘪𝘬𝘦𝘰𝘯 or the chicken’s stomach, which is distinguished by its signature hole at the pommel. A common figure from Visayan mythology found in some hilts is the giant serpent, 𝘉𝘢𝘬𝘶𝘯𝘢𝘸𝘢. Other hilt designs include the 𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘬𝘢𝘦 (python), 𝘐𝘯𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘮 (dog), 𝘐𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘰 (monkey), and 𝘉𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘬𝘢𝘺 (with 3 or 4 protruding horns).

Scholars who have studied these blades believe that some designs are influences from parts of Indianized-Southeast Asia, while other interpretations point out to the possibility that the humanoid figures are representations of deified ancestors.

See the photos of samples of Talibong hilt designs. Follow the #NationalMuseumPH to enjoy the #MuseumFromHome. (Theodore Ricardo Bautista, UP Visayas Intern via National Museum of the Philippines-WV)

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