Building a Place of Harmony

From the exhibit Exploring Objects, Fears, and the Future

Divination compass (luopan), China.

Circa early 1900s. 9-13025.

This magnetic compass is related to feng shui, the practice of divination and arrangement of space for living in harmony. The compass itself represents the cosmos. The markings on the compass help the practitioner align time and place, for instance, determining the ideal location and design of a house in relation to its surroundings. One may also use it to locate lost items and predict aspects of the future.

Other Exhibit Objects

Personifying Evil

This is a high-quality replica of a marble head found in 1868 in a Roman house in Subiaco, Italy.

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Celebrating with the Dead

This toy shows a skeletal couple for use on the holiday Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) in Mexico, where people celebrate dead loved ones.

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Seeking Guidance from the Akapo

This bag was used by diviners in the Ifá spiritual tradition, carrying objects such as shells, animal bones, or a chain made of seeds.

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Pleasing a Crocodile God

Ancient Egyptians living along the Nile counted on the river to flood every August, spreading fertile soil to nourish their crops.

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Imagining a Rain Dance

In traditional Nahua contexts, dancers could appeal to the god Tlaloc to ask for rain on behalf of their community.

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The Scent of Safety

According to Dr. Peter J Claus, women in the Tuluva community traditionally receive a small silver sickle, a tiny umbrella, and frankincense to protect themselves and the…

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