Maitum Jar Head Burial Vessel

The Maitum Jar Head, found in Ayub Cave, Sarangani Province, is an anthropomorphic pottery burial vessel cover from the Metal Age (5 BC–370 AD) in the Philippines. Unique to Southeast Asia, each jar head features distinct facial expressions, representing different emotions, ages, and genders. Used in secondary burials, these earthenware covers may indicate the deceased’s status, with painted elements suggesting social rank.