Pingtung County Paiwan Tribe Sculpture Museum Introduction
The Paiwan people have long been known for their carving skills. In the strictly hierarchical society of the Paiwan, not only could only the nobility own carved items, but most of the carvers were also men of noble status. Paiwan carved items come in various types, including combs, spoons, ornamental pieces, door lintels of buildings, ceremonial knives, and religious artifacts, all showcasing unique craftsmanship. The themes of the carvings primarily express hunting scenes, ancestor figures, and mythological stories. In terms of statue forms, human heads and motifs of the bamboo viper are the most common. To fully present the cultural characteristics of Paiwan artifacts and to increase awareness of Paiwan craftsmanship, the Paiwan Carving Museum was established in Pingtung County in 1995. This specialized collection museum provides a detailed introduction to the historical development of Paiwan craftsmanship through illustrations and texts, along with physical exhibits that allow visitors to appreciate the profound beauty of Paiwan art. The museum is divided into five major exhibition areas: the "Graphic Display Area" introduces the social hierarchy of the Paiwan and the history of carving evolution; the "Ecological Display Area" showcases types of carvings and carving techniques; the "Large Carving Display Area" features large human sculptures; the "Contemporary Carving Display Area" exhibits works by contemporary Paiwan artists; and the "Thematic Display Area" presents everyday items, religious artifacts, hunting weapons, and more, allowing visitors to delve deep into Paiwan religious beliefs and mythological legends through the mysterious patterns found on carved items, such as human heads, snake patterns, sun motifs, and pinwheel designs. In addition to carving works, the Paiwan Carving Museum also displays glass beads and pottery items, and notably, a traditional Paiwan stone slab house is presented in its original form, almost fully showcasing the essence of Paiwan art. A visit here promises a deeper understanding of the Paiwan artistic culture.
