new objects of life

Chinese have a long history of folk traditions that don't necessarily follow religious purpose. For instance, many Chinese still give grace to the three gods sometimes seen presented in the back of stores. Each represents prosperity, luck and longevity respectively. [there is further history and tale to the different gods that I am not so keen on].

Incense are often seen burned at shrines placed on doorsteps that are believed to feed the dead (acting almost as a means of remembrance). If incense are not burned, the world of the dead becomes cold and unlucky things may happen. The smoke is believed to be food for those loved-ones who have passed on to keep them happy and fed.

From time to time, usually on significant days (to each family is different), paper items are burned for it to be used by the dead in the afterlife. Often paper (fake) money is burned for them to spend, food (lucky oranges, bread, chicken) are left out for them to eat. Even paper clothes and other items of life are burnt to give to them to use.

In recent times, paper items such as cellphones, laptops, cars, air conditioners can be found selling in stores to be burned to give to those who have passed on. Everything from slippers, life size hot plates, to six-packs of beer, life-size servants and McDonald Happy Meals are made to the last detail (logos and all) out of paper to be burned in metal tins for the dead. It shows a shift in the values of the society and the materiality that has taken over in modern times.

These crafty paper items are made with remarkable detail and are often life-size (or larger). They are brilliantly made and are amazing as objects of craft, however, it would be difficult to take it out of context since it serves such a serious and morbid purpose.

Pictures coming soon... (I totally have my eye on that gold trim black boom box).