Mask of Kaishan (lit. “Mountain Opener”)
During the “repaying a Nuo vow” ceremony, the ritual specialist wears different masks that represent distinct identities at various stages.
Despite his fierce and intimidating appearance, Kaishan, also known as “Kanshan” (lit. “Mountain Chopper”) or “Kanshan dajiang” (lit. “Mountain Chopper General”), is a formidable benevolent deity. When Kaisan enters the stage wielding his hatchet, his fierceness is often offset by amusing speech, making this one of the most lighthearted moments of the ceremony.
Despite his fierce and intimidating appearance, Kaishan, also known as “Kanshan” (lit. “Mountain Chopper”) or “Kanshan dajiang” (lit. “Mountain Chopper General”), is a formidable benevolent deity. When Kaisan enters the stage wielding his hatchet, his fierceness is often offset by amusing speech, making this one of the most lighthearted moments of the ceremony.
- Item No.
- E00742
- 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
