The Rock Art Symbols and Spiritual Beliefs of the Lisu Indigenous People in the Lijiang Region of China

บทคัดย่อ

          This paper conducts an analysis of rock painting symbols and culture in the Lisu ethnic area of Lijiang,  China,  with  the  aim  of  establishing  a  theoretical  framework  for  ancient  Lisu cosmology and spiritual beliefs. The objective is to promote the inheritance and dissemination of traditional Lisu ethnic culture at a theoretical level. Employing qualitative research methods, the study conducts field surveys, expert interviews, and research on visual culture in art. It investigates  the beliefs  of young  Lisu people  and  local  villagers  in  Yongsheng,  Huaping, Yulong, Ninglang, and other areas, and collects samples from local rock painting sites. The analysis reveals that rock painting symbols in the Lisu area transcend mere artistic expression and have become crucial elements of the ethnic group's religious and cultural beliefs. They form a depiction structure encompassing animals, plants, abstract icons, and early human life. Further analysis of ethnic belief culture corroborates the involvement of these depictions in numerous significant ritual cultures of the Lisu ethnic group. Consequently, rock painting symbols in the Lijiang Lisu area serve as prototypes of ethnic beliefs and expressions of spirituality.

The research results indicate that these rock painting elements hold profound significance in Lisu mythology, religious customs, and social life. They are widely present in contemporary social norms and have become an important part of the spiritual practices of contemporary Lisu ethnic groups, gradually evolving into the cultural essence of the Lisu people. This study reveals the significance of these symbols in Lisu mythology and religious narratives and provides a new perspective on the value and significance of local art in the context of modern society and culture.