The Art of Northern Luzon

In this region carved wood is left in its natural colour, except for shields, which are painted red and black, and the eyes and teeth of statues. The statues (bulol and bihang) are ritual figures which protect the village and its storehouses and the rice-fields respectively, with crudely carved faces designed to ward off evil spirits. Bamboo vessels and gold articles are decorated with delicate abstract patterns. Representations of human figures and animals are found only among the Ifugaos, Bontocs and Ibalois, usually with simple geometric forms. Even everyday objects have carved decoration.