Penca De Balangandan

This is a a penca de balangandan, It is stamped RATA90,and has eight charms: The history of the Balangandan blends itself with the history of African slaves brought to Brazil, and their heritage of beliefs, culture and religion.production started in Salvador and became a part of Afro and slave clothing.Each balangandan had a meaning of its own, thus the diversity of charms that can be found in a penca; each penca is a set of several charms, evoking for good luck, protection of the African Gods and Goddess, and the strength of nature. The charms and meanings of them: Chains: a symbol of slavery Fist / Figa: to ward off evil eye, jealousy and diseases, made out of wood Birds: Usually owls or hawks, the birds that decorate the upper part of the holder represent Brazil and Africa, facing one another Holder: its shape represents slave ships, in which Africans were brought to America to be used as slaves. Angola bread: a symbol of longevity Roman Fruit: a symbol of humankind and fertility Cashew or double axe: Xango God of thunder, fire and justice. Stands for the power of leadership. Grapes or Fan: Oxum Goddess of fresh water, fountains and waterfalls. Goddess of fertility Corn other fruits and cereals symbols of the land fertility -Cocoa main agricultural plantation slaves worked on. rare item to find, especially in such great condition. An amazing piece of history, protection and luck for your home.