19TH CENTURY SOLID CARVED ROSEWOOD MANO FIGAS FIST PENDANT

The gesture of the thumb protruded between the pointer finger and middle finger has a variety of different meanings. It's an obscene gesture not unlike the middle finger. It means sex in Japan, the number 5 to the Maasai, the letter ‘T’ in American Sign Language, and ‘got your nose’ to every 4-year-old I’ve ever encountered. In ancient times it was worn as an incantation to The Goddess, a call for fertility, virility and good times. They were traditionally made of silver or blood coral, sacred elements for Luna, the goddess of the moon and Venus, the goddess of the sea, respectively. Now they are commonly worn throughout Brazil and Peru as a symbol of protection against the evil eye. The obscenity of the gesture is said to distract Satan from his conquest for your soul. Because of the close ties to femininity and motherhood it is traditional in Brazil to tie a tiny black figa to a child’s wrist to ward off bad luck. ____________________________________________ All measurements taken while fist lay flat: ~5" LENGTH ~1.5" WIDTH ~5" CIRCUMFERENCE *Measurements are not precise and are rounded* *This piece is embossed/signed on bottom of silver cap* (see photos) *There are two jump rings at cap* **PENDANT SOLD ALONE** There are no cracks, scratches, chips, holes, or rust. This piece is in EXCELLENT antique condition.