BONTOK IGOROT BACHELOR'S HAT- PHILIPPINES

Description

This small plaited basketry hat is made by the Bontoc people living in Northern Luzon in the Philippines. It is made of rattan and decorated with red bamboo, yellow reeds, and curved boar’s tusks at opposite ends.
These “
suklang”
(sometimes referred to as a “bachelors hat”) were used only by men. They are worn on the back of the head and held in place by a cord over the forehead. As part of everyday attire, the design, materials, and style indicated the man’s status in Bontoc society. The hats also served to carry their wearers’ personal possessions, such as betel nut, tobacco, matches, and other smoking or chewing equipment.
THIS HAT IS IN WONDERFUL CONDITION.  ON THE TOP OF THIS HAT THERE IS AN OLD BUTTON WHICH APPEARS TO BE FROM AN AMERICAN MILITARY UNIFORM.
PLEASE EXAMINE THE PICTURES FOR DETAIL AND CONDITION.  THANK YOU FOR LOOKING!