This remarkable Boaya necklace was associated with the Filipino Bontoc headhunters of Northern Luzon and made from 9 boar (Sus philippensis) tusks and rattan. The Bontoc are a subgroup of the Igorot peoples living on the banks of the Chico River in the Central Mountain Province on the island of Luzon. They speak the Bontoc language and Ilocano. The ceremonial necklace was known as "Boboaya, Fuyay-ya" and worn by men to confirm their status as headhunters. Headhunting practices were stamped out in the early 20th century. The use of the tusks were attributed with magical powers, the tusks give the wearer strength, speed, stamina and the ferocity of the wild boar.

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Has age related wear. Please see photos.