Mysterious world of Mosuo people

 Grandma heads the family

Mosuo is the only place in China that still abides by a matriarchal society, in that women are the top leaders of its community's extensive families. The people elieve family members are descendants of the same woman.

Mosuo families usually consist of around 10 people. Most families are led by a female. The head is the most capable woman in the family and is highly respected by other members. She holds both an honorary status and has important responsibilities since everyone counts on her to make decisions in handling family affairs. That includes ceremonies for honoring ancestors, building new houses and so on.

There are no husbands and fathers here -- lovers meet at night but live separately with their own mother's families by day.

An house is the basic social unite for Mosuo people. In every courtyard -- big or small -- there is generally one room that stands out among the others: the grandmother's quarters. It is also used for offering sacrifices to ancestors, discussing family matters, dining and receptions. However, its low ceiling and dark atmosphere also brings a sense of intimacy.

The only light in the room comes from a flame that burns in a coal-stove chamber, where an important stone is located. The stone represents the entire family ancestry. It is believed that souls of past generations live in it and that the fire must stay lit year round to keep them warm. An extinguished flame means that the family is declining. It is only when the flame is burning that the family can prosper.

 Axia marriage and the matriarchal family

There are three kinds of marriage patterns among the Mosuo people: the traditional Axia system (visiting marriage), Axia cohabitation and monogamy.

Page:

1

2

3

4

5

All rights reserved. Reproduction of text for non-commercial purposes is permitted provided that both the source and author are acknowledged and a notifying email is sent to us.