Tiboli bronze statue man on water buffalo (carabao) with calf - Philippines

Description

Tiboli bronze figurine of a man on a water buffalo (carabao) with her calf from the Philippines, with refined details and possible gilding.

This figurine shows the Tiboli (also called T'boli) tribe from southern Mindanao, Philippines. It depicts a rider on a water buffalo, known locally as carabao, together with her calf. This composition emphasises fertility, prosperity and connectedness within the community.

Origin & meaning
The Tiboli are famous for their bronze casting art in cire perdue technique. Figures like these served as ritual objects or house amulets and symbolised status, protection and fertility. The addition of the calf reinforces the meaning of prosperity and continuity, while the possible gilding indicates ceremonial value.

Dimensions & condition
Height 12 cm including plinth (8 cm without), width 10 cm, depth 3 cm.
Material: bronze, possibly gilt, mounted on wooden base.
Condition: good condition, with slight signs of age and use wear appropriate to its age (see photos). The object is firmly attached to its base.