An introduction to Maonan folk paper-cutting

For the Maonan people in Huanjiang, Guangxi, the tomb marker for mourning their loved ones is made of bamboo branches with leaves and colorful paper frogs cut into clam shapes.

According to legend, it was to commemorate the victory of the giant clam over the python. With the clam blessing in the tomb, the snake would not dare to go to the tomb to nest. The Maonan people use paper clams as tomb markers to protect the souls of the deceased and to express their remembrance of the deceased. This legend may be based on the mutual restraint between animals, and it also reflects the Maonan peoples special way of mourning their loved ones and commemorating the dead. The Maonan people use scissors or carving knives for paper-cutting. In addition to the above witchcraft purposes, they can also cut paper for embroidery patterns. In addition, influenced by the local Han people, they have the custom of cutting window grilles or cutting paintings.