Moonlit Legacies: China's Mid-Autumn Relics and Traditions (5)

Lunar Cleansing Painting

Five Dynasties Era (907-960)

In addition to moon gazing, "moon worship" was a significant custom during the Mid-Autumn Festival, both in imperial courts and among the common people. This practice evolved from the ancient royal ritual of "Autumn Equinox Moon Sacrifice."

The painting vividly depicts women worshipping the moon on Mid-Autumn night. Dressed in elegant attire, a noblewoman holds a luminous pearl, bending slightly to cleanse it with water, while her attendants either burn incense or hold a cosmetic case. The scene radiates an atmosphere of opulence, harmony, and reverence.