Pingtung County Paiwan Tribe Carving Museum Introduction
The Paiwan people are renowned for their carving craftsmanship. In the strictly hierarchical society of the Paiwan tribe, not only can only nobles possess carved items, but the majority of carvers are also male nobles. The types of Paiwan carvings are diverse, including items such as hair combs, spoons, decorative items, architectural door lintels, ceremonial knives, and religious sacred objects, all showcasing their unique carving skills. The themes of the carvings primarily focus on hunting motifs, ancestral figures, and mythological stories, while the most common forms are human head sculptures and patterns resembling the hundred-pace snake. To fully present the cultural artifacts of the Paiwan people and allow more people to understand their craft culture, the Paiwan Carving Museum was established by the Pingtung County Cultural Affairs Bureau in 1995. This specialized repository introduces in detail the development and evolution of Paiwan craftsmanship through graphic information and physical exhibitions, allowing visitors to appreciate the profound beauty of Paiwan art. The Paiwan Carving Museum is divided into five major exhibition areas: the "Graphic Exhibition Area," which introduces the social hierarchy and the history of carving evolution in the Paiwan tribe; the "Ecology Exhibition Area," showcasing types of carvings and carving techniques; the "Large Carving Exhibition Area," which displays large sculptures of figures; the "Contemporary Carving Exhibition Area," featuring works by contemporary Paiwan artists; and the "Theme Exhibition Area," displaying everyday items, religious artifacts, hunting weapons, and more. The mysterious patterns found on the carvings, such as heads, snake patterns, sun motifs, and windmill designs, provide deep insights into the religious beliefs and mythological tales of the Paiwan people. In addition to the carving works, the Paiwan Carving Museum also showcases glass beads and pottery items. Notably, the traditional stone-slate houses of the Paiwan people are presented here in their original form, nearly encapsulating the essence of Paiwan art. A visit to this museum is sure to offer a deeper appreciation of the artistic culture of the Paiwan tribe.
