Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Lao Animist Woven Textiles- (article #4) Ving, A Finshing Net

Fishing Net

“Ving” is a type of Lao fishing apparatus and technique, made of very durable yarns tied into a net on a frame of bamboo for an open access. The net is the main article for Shaman conducting the ceremony for healing the illness caused when one’s spirit is misplaced. The Shaman would carry the net, and wearing a baby carry-cloth with the articles of clothing belonging to the sick person inside, also a basket of sticky rice with boiled egg or boiled chicken has been prepared as offering to comfort the spirit.
The Shaman would wander the village, searching for spirits along the street, on the banks of river, or in the bush, and locations where he expects to find the lost spirit.
When the Shaman finds the spirit he will persuade him out of his hiding place and catch him with the fishing net and take home with him.


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