Poa̍h-poe (跋杯)

Felix Saw

1100mm x 550mm (excluding framing)

Digital artwork printed on Cotton rag floated in blackwood,  24 December 2024

During our Lunar New Year’s Eve dinner, meals are first offered to the deities and ancestors as a gesture of respect, gratitude, and reverence for their blessings and guidance. Central to this ritual is the act of "poa̍h-poe" (跋杯), which translates to "casting moon blocks" in Hokkien. These ancient divination tools are used to seek divine guidance, providing answers to yes-or-no questions. The blocks are dropped, and their landing position reveals the answer. If one block lands flat and the other round, it signifies a ‘yes,’ affirming the presence of the deities and ancestors in the room.

This artwork portrays the profound connection between family and spirituality during our Lunar New Year dinner. Loved ones—both past and present—gather at the table, unified by the protective presence of the deities, to share a traditional feast and celebrate together.