![[Time Trowel] The price of collecting without respect for culture](https://i.headtopics.com/images/2025/1/28/rapplerdotcom/time-trowel-the-price-of-collecting-without-respec-time-trowel-the-price-of-collecting-without-respec-B7B07B139794C9551110FAC1AF1F2277.webp)
The commodification of Ifugao cultural items exacerbates their appropriation. High-profile auctions often prioritize financial value over cultural significance.
A trowel , in the hands of an archaeologist, is like a trusty sidekick — a tiny, yet mighty, instrument that uncovers ancient secrets, one well-placed scoop at a time. It’s the Sherlock Holmes of the excavation site, revealing clues about the past with every delicate swipe. of the Ifugao , where these wooden figures serve as guardians of life. For centuries, these spirit representations have been at the heart of rituals, believed to protect the rice crops that sustain the community.
The concept of authenticity frequently drives the collecting of indigenous artifacts, but it is often imposed by outsiders, distorting its meaning. Authenticity should not be limited to external judgments but shaped by the voices of the communities themselves. Acarved for ritual use and one created for sale both represent Ifugao artisanry and cultural expression. Collectors and institutions must expand their definitions of authenticity to include community perspectives.
In the collecting world, the claim to expertise often reinforces control and marginalization. Collectors who position themselves as authorities on indigenous culture risk perpetuating colonial mindsets that treat communities as subjects rather than partners. Ethical expertise requires collaboration. Collectors and institutions must involve Ifugao communities in decisions about howand other cultural materials are displayed, interpreted, and shared.
Auctions Cordillera Administrative Region Thought Leaders Arts &Amp Culture Editors' Pick Voices
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Philippines Residential Property Prices Contract for First Time in Three YearsThe Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported that residential property prices in the Philippines contracted for the first time in three years during the third quarter. The Residential Real Estate Price Index fell by 2.3 percent, with duplex housing units experiencing the most significant decline at 48.1 percent. Condominium prices also dropped by 9.4 percent, while single-detached/attached and townhouse prices saw more modest increases.
Read more »
Interview: Japanese girl group Phantom Siita excited to perform for the first time in PHJapanese girl group Phantom Siita said they are excited to meet their Filipino fans when they perform for the first time in the Philippines in January.
Read more »
Lawmakers Hail Marcos Jr. for Signing P6.326-Trillion 2025 Budget on TimeLawmakers praised President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for signing the P6.326-trillion 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) on Rizal Day, avoiding a reenacted budget and ensuring smooth government operations. Senate Finance Committee chairperson Grace Poe and House Appropriations chairman Elizaldy Co lauded the timely approval, emphasizing the President's focus on fiscal discipline and national priorities. The budget includes a program to benefit over 4 million low-income earners and prioritizes education, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture.
Read more »
DoST moves for a culture of responsible time managementAS the New Year approaches, the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) once again emphasizes the importance of responsible time management for personal and national growth through the 'Oras Pinas,' the National Time Consciousness Week.
Read more »
Preparations go fever-pitch for country’s first-time hosting of FIVB men’s worldsPREPARATIONS shift to the next higher gear on New Year’s Day Wednesday as the countdown dwindles to nine months for the Philippines’ first-ever solo hosting of the FIVB Men’s World Championship (MWCH) 2025.
Read more »
It’s teen sensation Littler vs three-time champ Van Gerwen in world darts finalLONDON — Teenage star Luke Littler has reached the final at the world darts championship — again. Still just 17, Littler routed Stephen Bunting, 6-1, in Thursday's semifinal to give himself another shot at the title, one year after his unlikely run brought waves of new fans to the sport.
Read more »