Bontoc Sword

Nonoy Tan · 30th April 2011, 08:55 AM

Woodcarvers and blacksmiths create items depending on specifications provided by buyers, e.g middlemen. Whether finely or crudely carved, thick or thin spine depends on the specifications taking into consideration, expected profit margins, prices that tourists can afford, etc. The market for such items is still large in Northern Luzon. However, stiff competition haso driven quality and prices down. But then again, typical tourists usually do not have the same idea of quality as weapon collectors. Thus, in the case of this dagger, collectors would probably judge it as poor quality but tourists would probably love it. I am generalizing of course.

This dagger does not seem to be prevalent nowadays in the souvenir shops. Perhaps it was not a successful tourist item (from a souvenir business point of view) and therefore ceased to be produced. By the way, the design is Ifugao, not Bontoc. There are lots of Ifugaos in Bontoc areas, making and selling souvenir items. Also, lots of Ifugao-made souvenir items are brought to Bontoc to be sold. Some Bontoc souvenir makers have even adopted Ifugao designs.

Nonetheless, this dagger is a lethal weapon and may have its practical uses.

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30th April 2011, 08:55 AM	#5
Nonoy Tan Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 293	Woodcarvers and blacksmiths create items depending on specifications provided by buyers, e.g middlemen. Whether finely or crudely carved, thick or thin spine depends on the specifications taking into consideration, expected profit margins, prices that tourists can afford, etc. The market for such items is still large in Northern Luzon. However, stiff competition haso driven quality and prices down. But then again, typical tourists usually do not have the same idea of quality as weapon collectors. Thus, in the case of this dagger, collectors would probably judge it as poor quality but tourists would probably love it. I am generalizing of course. This dagger does not seem to be prevalent nowadays in the souvenir shops. Perhaps it was not a successful tourist item (from a souvenir business point of view) and therefore ceased to be produced. By the way, the design is Ifugao, not Bontoc. There are lots of Ifugaos in Bontoc areas, making and selling souvenir items. Also, lots of Ifugao-made souvenir items are brought to Bontoc to be sold. Some Bontoc souvenir makers have even adopted Ifugao designs. Nonetheless, this dagger is a lethal weapon and may have its practical uses.