26/11/2024
SCENE IN MOUNTAIN PROVINCE, LUZON ISLAND, PHILIPPINES, CA. 1911-1921 - captures a vivid glimpse of life in the highlands during the early 20th century. Nestled within the rugged Cordillera mountain range, Mountain Province was home to various indigenous communities whose way of life was shaped by their natural environment and rich cultural traditions.
The scene likely features terraced rice fields, a hallmark of the region’s ingenuity and agricultural heritage. These terraces, carved into the mountainsides over generations, demonstrate the resourcefulness of the Ifugao and other indigenous groups in adapting to their challenging terrain. A central figure or group of people in traditional attire—such as woven garments or bahag (loincloths)—may be depicted, emphasizing the distinct cultural identity of the region.
Daily life in this period revolved around farming, hunting, and weaving, with strong communal ties evident in shared labor and ceremonies. The background may include traditional thatched-roof houses, or ato, clustered along the slopes, symbolizing the importance of community in these highland villages.
This photograph illustrates the harmony between the people and their environment, showcasing their ability to thrive in the mountains while preserving traditions that date back centuries. The scene reflects not just the resilience of the highland communities but also the timeless beauty of the Philippine Cordilleras, a landscape and culture that remains a source of pride and identity to this day.
SOURCE: The New York Public Library