本文從中國史前至漢代的文物中，分辨出以鴟鴞即俗稱的貓頭鷹為原形的神，並追尋了其劇烈變化的軌跡。史前時期的鴟鴞圖像或是一種避免兵器傷害的咒物，於西周時期則是其時高貴的神祇，而至漢代則成了地位低下的警衛。

This article traces the origin and evolution of the ch'ih-hsiao, or barn-owl, figure on Chinese cultural artifacts from pre-historic through Han times. The author shows how the image of the ch'ih-hsiao originated during the pre-historic period as a kind of protective image against harm suffered from weapons, but by the Western Chou had evolved to become one of the more powerful god-figures of the period. In a last instance, the author analyzes how during the Han dynasty, the nature of the ch'ih-hsiao figure once again changed to take place as a guardian of lowly rank in the pantheon of gods and spirits of the time.

鴟鴞; 西周; 青銅器

ch'ih-hsiao; Western Chou; bronzes