The Kalinga are Indigenous Peoples of the northern mountainous areas of the Philippines.
Kalinga clothing is particularly brightly coloured and many traditional Kalinga weaving designs and patterns remain unchanged through generations, with weavers taking care not to make alterations since the colors and details have specific meanings. Red, for instance, symbolizes bravery while black represents the earth or the ground. Mountain symbols are embroidered in yellow, a color that also symbolizes wealth and fertility.
The Ka-in is a wraparound skirt characterised by horizontal stripes bordered by decorated panels. In typical fashion, this example is further embellished with embroidery, beads and mother-of-pearl shells. The shells, which were an imported novelty for mountainous communities like the Kalinga, are attached so has to move and reflect light. This adds a dynamic element to the overall design.
52” x 27.5”