Plaque

54-25-1

From: China

Curatorial Section: Asian

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Object Number 54-25-1
Current Location Collections Storage
Culture Manchu
Provenience China
Period Qing Dynasty
Date Made Qing Dynasty
Section Asian
Materials Walrus Tusk
Inscription Language Chinese Language
Description

Walrus ivory abstinence plaque (齋戒牌), inscribed in Chinese and Manchu. The Chinese text reads 齋戒 zhaijie "abstinence; fasting". It was worn as a warning that the wearer is making a religious fast and should not be offered certain luxury foods. It was also meant to remind the wearer not to engage in sexual activity for three days before worship.

Credit Line Gift of Helen J. Airgood in memory of Dr. S. Paul Jones, 1954

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