China

Chinese

Wood 
Mid 20th century
(Smallest to largest, l x w)
1: 5.25 in x 3.5 in;
2: 5.75 in x 3.75 in;
3: 6.5 in x 4.25 in;
4: 7 in x 4.5 in;
5: 8 in x 6.5 in
Idiophones – Struck Idiophones – Slit Drums

This Han Chinese muyu set of  woodblocks are each carved in the shape of a fish with scales.  The stylized fish head and tail connect to create the handle.  It is used to accompany chants (‘sutras’) in Taoist and Buddhist ceremonies.  Having no eyelids, the fish symbolizes wakeful attention and vigilance in devotion.  It is classified as a slit drum and was first described as a specifically Buddhist instrument, struck with regular beats to accompany the chanting of monks and nuns.  Later it was used in the percussion section of the Cantonese ensembles.  Related to the Chinese muyu are the Japanese mokugyo and the Korean mokt’ak.