RESEARCH DATA:

Brass pipes, such as the one showcased in this collection, were utilized by the Ibaloy and Kankana-ey speaking communities in Benguet and were also prevalent among the Bontoc. Notably, the Kankana-ey towns in Benguet and Mountain Province gained recognition as distinguished producers of brass pipes in the Cordillera (Casal et al., 1981). According to Casal et al. (1981), the intricate process of crafting these pipes could span up to six months, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship involved. These pipes found common use in social gatherings and ceremonies, with the ownership of a finely crafted pipe considered a symbol of elevated status.