Batangueños carved bamboo sheaths

Batangueños carved bamboo sheaths
Batangueños carved bamboo sheaths | @nayongpilipino.museo

Batangueños carved bamboo sheaths 

The Batangueños are famous for their metal works, including the famous itak, the one-sided blades forged for their utilitarian use. However, alongside the itak, the Batangueños also provide artistically carved bamboo sheaths. This is made by carving both sides of the bamboo tube so they will mirror each other, leaving a thin space where the blade can be inserted. Rattan strips bound around the sheath prevent it from breaking apart but also provide a loop through which the user’s belt can go through. One can see a typical Batangueño with their sheathed itak hanging from their hips.

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