The tradition of making wooden molds for confectionery is an old one in Taiwan. And while changing times and competition from machines have put a big dent in the work of traditional mold-makers, not all have given in. Some are even working to adapt to newer tastes.
A traditional treat called ang-ku-koeh was and is a common sight at temple events and other celebrations in Taiwan. These treats are shaped like tortoises, and they get this special shape thanks to the use of an intricately carved wooden mold.
Molds used for making confections like these can feature all sorts of designs, many of which are associated with good luck or long life. Though traditional confections have fallen somewhat out of favor and though machine-made molds exist, the craftsmen behind these molds continue to work as always.
Sometimes, they can still get enormous commissions—Tsai Jung-hsing of Yilan County used an entire tree trunk to make one 2009 piece commissioned for a temple event. It was then the largest mold in existence, measuring more than four meters across.
But more often, they find work harder to come by these days. Tsai Jung-hsing, for one, isn’t giving up, though. He has turned to carving keychains, smart phone covers, and other, more contemporary works of art that appeal to current tastes. The traditional motifs have stayed, though, spreading appreciation of this type of traditional craftsmanship to new generations.