Pingtung County Paiwan Tribe Sculpture Museum Introduction
The Paiwan people have long been known for their carving craftsmanship. In the highly stratified society of the Paiwan, not only nobles could own carved items, but the majority of carvers were also men of noble status. The types of Paiwan carvings are diverse, including hair combs, spoons, ornaments, building lintels, decorative ritual knives, and religious artifacts, all showcasing unique carving techniques. The subjects of the carvings primarily express themes of hunting, ancestral figures, and mythological stories. Common carving styles include human head figures and patterns of the puff adder. To fully present the cultural artifacts of the Paiwan people and to help more people understand their craftsmanship, the Paiwan Carving Museum was established in the Pingtung County Cultural Center in 1995. This specialized collection museum provides a detailed introduction to the development and evolution of Paiwan craftsmanship through graphic presentations, along with physical exhibits that allow visitors to appreciate the profound beauty of Paiwan art. The Paiwan Carving Museum is divided into five major exhibition areas: the "Visual Display Area," which introduces the social hierarchy and the history of carving evolution among the Paiwan; the "Ecological Display Area," which showcases the types and techniques of carving; the "Large Carving Display Area," which features large human statues; the "Contemporary Carving Display Area," which displays works by contemporary Paiwan artists; and the "Thematic Display Area," which exhibits daily necessities, religious artifacts, hunting weapons, and more. From the human heads, snake patterns, sun patterns, and windmill patterns found on the carvings, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Paiwan religious beliefs and mythological legends. In addition to carved works, the Paiwan Carving Museum also exhibits glass beads and ceramic artworks. Notably, a traditional Paiwan stone slate house is also presented in its original form, nearly allowing an exhaustive showcase of Paiwan's artistic essence. A visit here is sure to provide deeper insights into the artistic culture of the Paiwan people.
