Mask of the God of Land
During the “repaying a Nuo vow” ceremony, the ritual specialist wears different masks that represent distinct identities at various stages.
Entrusted with ensuring regional peace and abundant harvests, the God of Land is a local deity worshipped by the Miao of western Hunan. While wearing the mask, the ritualist primarily recites verses related to agricultural matters, conveying the community’s prayers for longevity and fruitful harvests.
The “bax deib zhal” wears the mask at an angle to be able to reference the ritual text when needed.
Entrusted with ensuring regional peace and abundant harvests, the God of Land is a local deity worshipped by the Miao of western Hunan. While wearing the mask, the ritualist primarily recites verses related to agricultural matters, conveying the community’s prayers for longevity and fruitful harvests.
The “bax deib zhal” wears the mask at an angle to be able to reference the ritual text when needed.
- Item No.
- E00739
- Notes
- Acquired by Hu Chi-jui and Wu Pei-hua (2006) from Pingyun village in Shetangpo township, Jishou city, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan.
Miao ethnic group of Hunan
