Djulin - image of female ancestor of a family

Nanais

Far East Krai, Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Okrug

early 20th century

Wood

height 74.0; width 21.0; depth 12.8

Peoples of Siberia and Far East

РЭМ 4795-444

The Nanais made similar images for each other, and the shaman revived them, instilling a spirit in them. Djulin guarded the dwelling and the owners, helped in hunting, transmitted requests to the spirit of Sangiya mapa (master of the sky). During important events for the family, the image was fed with porridge, blood, lard and the heart of an elk, and also fumigated with wild rosemary smoke.