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Divination box (占卜道具箱)

Introduction
The divination or shaman’s box was used to hold objects for divination rites. A shaman, usually a woman, took out the required objects from the box when carrying out divination rites. She also presented offerings to the ancestral spirits and recited specific incantations. In general, objects and items used in religious rites and ceremonies were more elaborately decorated than everyday use items.


Shape and materials

A divination box is a square wooden box without a lid. Along the opening, netting made of woven ramie or cotton cloth is attached. Rattan loops are added to the top of the netting or cloth for attaching a rope to form a closure. In this specimen, only remnants of the woven ramie netting remain. On the upper and lower sections are carved patterns of disembodied human heads. In the center is a ring-shaped pattern of disembodied human heads. Other decorations include inlaid triangular pieces of shell. On the sides are carvings of human figures. The eyes of these figures are fitted with metal studs. The surface is covered in red and black lacquer. In the center on both sides are holes for attaching a rope for ease of carrying.


Production methods
A single block of wood is hollowed out to form a square box without lid. Carvings are added and the box is covered in red and black lacquer. In earlier times, tools were used to hollow out a block of wood by hand, a time consuming process. Today, most divination boxes are made by joining together pieces of wood. Then, holes are made along the top edge of the box for attaching woven ramie netting or cotton cloth. To the top of the netting or cloth small woven rattan loops are sewn on for adding a rope closure. Holes are also made in the center on both sides of the box for attaching a ramie rope used for carrying the box.


Uses and functions
This box was used by the shamans of the Paiwan tribe to store items used in divination rites, prayers, healing rites and rites to expel evil spirits. These include small blades, pig bones, leaves, fruit and pieces of metal, etc. When carrying out divination or other rites, shamans use the appropriate objects, present offerings to the ancestral spirits and recite incantations.

 

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