Town-protecting Copper Skull
Its origin, functions, and related legends are as follows:
Origin:
The exact origin of the Town-protecting Copper Skull is unclear, but it is likely derived from ancient Chinese folk beliefs and Taoist amulets. In ancient times, to fend off diseases, ghosts, and evil forces, people would place items with mysterious symbolic significance in their homes or wear them for protection. The Town-protecting Copper Skull may be one element of this tradition.
Functions:
The primary function of the Town-protecting Copper Skull in folktales is to ward off evil and protect the household. Some stories claim that the copper skull has powerful mystical powers that can dispel evil spirits, protect against evil, eliminate disasters, and protect offspring's safety. In many families, people may place the copper skull in a prominent location in the house to enhance its protective effect.
Related Legends:
The legends surrounding the Town-protecting Copper Skull vary, but here are some typical examples:
A skilled craftsman cast a copper skull symbolizing the warding off of evil spirits and demons into a lock and gifted it to a friend who was deeply tormented by evil spirits. After using the copper skull lock, the ghosts disappeared from the friend's house, and ominous occurrences ceased.
A family placed the Town-protecting Copper Skull in the main hall, and subsequently, the incidents of illness and accidents in the house significantly decreased. The copper skull also brought good fortune to the family, as they continued to prosper.
Though there isn't much detailed documentation regarding the Town-protecting Copper Skull, its role as a traditional symbol for warding off evil and offering protection in folk beliefs still holds some cultural value.