Filipino Gala Belt, Beaded Art, Bronze, Mindanao

This is a traditional indigenous belt crafted with intricate chaquira beadwork woven in geometric patterns of diamonds and rhombuses using the traditional colors: black, white, yellow, and red. It features dangling fringes of the same material, ending in small bronze or brass bells called tungkaling or singkil. This type of accessory belongs to the Lumad tribes of the Mindanao region in the Philippines, and is characteristic of two related groups: The T'boli tribe (from Lake Sebu, South Cotabato): They know it as Hilet Lemimet. Women of royalty or high status often wear these geometric designs (particularly triangles and rhombuses) accompanied by bronze bells that jingle as they walk. The Bagobo tribe (from the Davao region): They know it as Bakus. It is a very wide ceremonial piece traditionally used by important or elite women. Men also wear belts with bells, but with the bells attached closer to the strap rather than on long fringes. Cultural significance: The sound of the bronze bells is not purely ornamental; tribes traditionally believe that the constant ringing drives away evil spirits, attracts good fortune, and harmoniously announces the arrival of a person. Measure 35 inches