澎湖上元節乞龜節俗及米龜堆疊技藝之探討

Craftsmanship Underlying Making of Rice Turtles in Penghu’s Qi Gui Culture During the Lantern Festival

這些年以來，米龜堆疊技術成為澎湖上元節文化特質之一，具備在地文化資產保存潛質與文化觀光結合之優勢條件。本文以澎湖上元節米龜堆疊技藝為例，透過實地觀察紀錄，一方面描繪米龜堆疊工序、工法、工料，以作為日後地方民俗價值之參考；另方面挖掘製龜司阜的身體技藝記憶，以塑造乞龜文化的時代意義。初步探討結果顯示，這項源自於乞龜習俗且因應廟宇市場需求的在地技術，發展出一群疊龜人力。堆疊技術經驗值的累積，需要不斷地摸索、團隊合作的搭配，以及材料工具的善用等。小米龜可作為活動教學的推廣運用，大米龜可視為地方技藝保存的思考案例。每一件完成品的生活美感投入，以及個人成長過程的記憶鏈結，刻劃出不同龜品形貌。

The rice-bag stacking technique has become a key cultural element of the Lantern Festival in Penghu, demonstrating the potential to preserve local cultural heritage and integrate local culture and tourism. This study conducted field surveys to investigate the craftsmanship underlying the making of rice turtles during the Lantern Festival in Penghu. The procedure, techniques, and materials involved in stacking rice bags to create shapes of turtles were examined to provide insights for facilitating future discussions regarding the value of local folklore. The physical memories of craftspeople who make rice turtles were also discussed to explore the historical significance of the“Qi Gui”(literally“begging the turtles”in Chinese) culture. A preliminary investigation revealed that the Qi Gui tradition in local temples spurred the cultivation of craftsmanship and expertise related to making rice turtles. Rice-bag stacking requires experience, teamwork, and the effective use of materials and tools. Small rice turtles were made as educational demonstrations to introduce the public to the Qi Gui culture, whereas large rice turtles were made to highlight efforts to preserve local craftsmanship. The everyday aesthetics, background, and memories of each craftsman contribute to their distinct and diverse rice-turtle works.