Summary
Highlights
The video introduces the Golden Tara, a seven-inch tall, four-pound gold statue with elaborate headwear and body adornments, originating from the Philippines. It is also known as the Agusan image.
In July 1917, after a strong storm, a Manobo woman named Bilay Campos (previously referred to as Constancia in the narrative) accidentally discovered the Golden Tara on the banks of the Wawa River in Agusan del Sur.
Historical records indicate the Manobo woman was convinced by a tribal Datu to surrender the 'diwata' (deity) to Deputy Governor Blas Baclagon. However, Constancia, Bilay Campos's relative, claims the statue was stolen from her grandmother, not surrendered or sold.
From Baclagon, the Golden Tara ended up with the Agusan Coconut Company. In 1918, Dr. H. Otley Beyer attempted to have the Philippine government purchase it for the National Museum but failed due to lack of funds. In 1920, it was sold at the Manila Exposition to Americans for $4,000, which today would be over $1.5 million. It arrived at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago by 1922.
Officials in Agusan del Sur do not plan to reclaim the Golden Tara but wish for assistance to develop a historical landmark at its discovery site. Former Senator Aquilino Pimentel, however, advocated for its return. The Field Museum initially declined filming requests but later allowed it.
The video shows the Golden Tara, referred to as the 'Agusan gold image' by the museum, displayed in the Granger Hall of Gems. Jamie Kelly, collections manager, explains that the museum acquired it in 1922 and that its gold alloy is above 18 carats, containing copper and silver. The museum views it as a valuable piece offering insights into 13th-century Philippine life.
Jamie Kelly takes the host to a storage location with other Philippine artifacts. The museum houses about 2,000 such items, collected by American anthropologists between 1907-1910. Examples include an intricately designed 'blaan' blouse from Davao and a 'kinumot' ornament made from boar tusks and mother-of-pearl.
When asked about the possibility of the Golden Tara's return, Jamie Kelly states the museum would consider a request but cannot provide a definitive answer. The host emphasizes the importance of Filipinos seeing these artifacts firsthand and the potential for these items to reveal more about their history and culture.