A Vital Matters Perspective: Uses and Meanings of Bulul

Uses and Meanings of Bulul

Armand Camhol explains how bulul are humanlike wood carvings used by the Ifugao for many purposes. He describes how they are seen as beings from another dimension that help with cultivating heirloom rice, bringing blessings, increasing wealth, and even healing when rituals are performed. He also talks about how colonial writings and Christianity influenced different interpretations of the bulul, and how its meaning changes depending on each person, from a powerful vessel to simply a piece of wood.

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Image of male and female bululs

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Image of male and female bululs

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Image of male and female bululs

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p038

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1 PERSON
Armand Camhol headshot

Armand

Camhol

Doctoral candidate

National Chengchi University in Taiwan

Armand Camhol headshot

Armand

Camhol

Doctoral candidate

National Chengchi University in Taiwan

Armand Camhol headshot

Armand

Camhol

Doctoral candidate

National Chengchi University in Taiwan

Copyright © 2025 Fowler Museum.

All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2025 Fowler Museum.

All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2025 Fowler Museum.

All Rights Reserved.