The Art of Pusô
An interactive journey into Visayan palm leaf art, from 17th-century rituals to modern street food.
1. The Linguistic Archive
Historical dictionaries (Vocabularios) reveal that *pusô* terms encoded social hierarchy and gender. Tap a card below to reveal details
Cumol Sin Datu
The Noble's Fist
Linalaqui
Masculine Form
Pusô
The Heart
Tamu
The Guest
Select a term above
2. Ritual to Utility
Tracing the shift from a sacred offering (*paganitu*) to a common hanging rice traveler's meal.
Sacred Object
Spirit offering in *pagbutas* rites.
Catholic Symbol
Adapted for Palm Sunday (*lukay*).
Street Food
Portable "Hanging Rice" for utility.
Usage Trends Over Time
3. Pan-Asian Context
Comparing the Visayan *Pusô* with the Malay/Indonesian *Ketupat*.
Key Comparisons
- 1 Shared Roots: Both derive from the Austronesian root *temu* (to meet/guest).
- 2 Variety: *Pusô* has complex animal shapes (birds, fists); *Ketupat* is mostly geometric (diamond).
- 3 Daily vs. Holy: *Pusô* is everyday street food; *Ketupat* is often specific to Eid festivals.
Heritage Metrics
4. Gastronomic Science
Simulate how leaf choice and weaving density affect the cooked rice.
Configure Weave
Adjust settings to see results.
Lukay - Tight Weave
Result: A firm, compact cake. High preservation due to limited air pockets. The coconut oils infuse a sweet aroma. Ideal for travel.