"Muyu (temple block)"

In China the fish is a symbol of watchfulness and reflects the belief that a fish never sleeps. Muyu are played during Buddhist chants and are often decorated with a fish design which is meant to bring about a state of wakeful awareness. In this instrument you can see the fish’s flowing gold tail forming the handle of the drum.Made of camphor wood.

Temple block

China

Asia

Instrument Data

Instrument Information

Title

Muyu (temple block)

Accession Number

1650

Collection

MIMEd; Blades Collection

Date Information

Date Made

Circa 1930

Period

20th century; 1920s; 1930s

Gallery Information

Gallery

Laigh Room

Case

Ritual instruments display

Maker Information

No information recorded.

Made In

Country

China

Description

Other Information

Specific usage history: No evidence that this instrument has ever been played.

Technical Description

Woodblock (camphor wood) with hollowed interior and slit in front; painted black and gold; Inscription added ("G-G#").

Provenance

Purchased, 1982.

Classification