Paper-cut pictures of the Nung Din
It has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Paper cutting requires meticulousness and precision to create delicate art products for Nung Din funeral rituals. Paper-cut pictures have been an important part of the religious life of generations of the Nung Din people in Muong Khuong district. The pictures are made whenever someone in the community dies. These are offerings to the deceased to show the filial piety of the children and grandchildren for their parents or grandparents when they go to the afterlife. The Nung Din believe that when a person dies, their soul leaves their body and exists in a supernatural world but can still influence the living. Souls can return to earth to visit their family and bless their relatives with prosperity, good health, and peace. Van Van Chien is one of the best paper-cut artisans in Nam Ooc hamlet. He says most of the men there can make paper-cut picture. “I love this art...