A bewitching voodoo doll head is a unique and powerful symbol in voodoo culture. Voodoo dolls have long been associated with supernatural powers and the ability to manipulate and control others. However, it is important to note that voodoo is a complex and often misunderstood religion with a rich history and cultural significance. The voodoo doll head, in particular, is believed to hold great power. It is typically made from a variety of materials, such as wood, wax, or clay, and is intricately carved and decorated with symbols and designs that are believed to enhance its power. The head is often the focal point of the doll, representing the connection to the spiritual realm.
Voodoo doll: The Voodoo doll is much smaller than the average Nkisi.
This gives more power to the user, and removes the voodoo doll from its social context, allowing for more individual power as opposed to a societal power. Joukowsky Institute for Archaeology the Ancient World Brown University Box 1837 60 George Street Providence, RI 02912 Telephone 401 863-3188 Fax 401 863-9423 email protected.
The head is often the focal point of the doll, representing the connection to the spiritual realm. The bewitching aspect of the voodoo doll head lies in its ability to be used as a tool for casting spells or conducting rituals. Through the use of pins, herbs, and other objects, practitioners believe they can influence and manipulate various aspects of a person's life, including their health, luck, and relationships.
Greco-Roman Curses: Voodoo Dolls
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Voodoo dolls
Voodoo dolls (or kolossoi as the Greeks called them) were also quite popular in the Greco-Roman world. C.A. Faraone, in his survey of all known voodoo dolls, set specific criteria – the dolls must meet at least 2 of the following criteria to be included:
(1) the doll’s arms or legs are twisted behind its back as if bound (2) the doll is transfixed with nails (3) the head or feet or upper torso of the doll has been twisted back to front (4) the doll is tightly shut in a container (5) the doll has been inscribed with a victim’s name (6) the doll has been discovered in a grave, sanctuary or in (what was) water
How Voodoo dolls Were Used
Voodoo dolls were not as common as curse tablets, though they still were prevalent. They were commonly made of lead or bronze. Wax dolls were found in Egypt in late antiquity. The dolls were placed in a variety of places, with graves being the most popular. Other places included homes, sanctuaries, and in what used to be bodies of water. Plato mentioned that dolls were displayed at points where three roads met, on doors and on parental graves (Laws 933a). They are often represented as bound and twisted into violent positions. Occasionally, the dolls were mutilated (hands, legs, head, etc chopped off) or if wax, melted.
Voodoo dolls and Curse Tablets
Dolls were often associated with curse tablets in that they were often inscribed with the name of the curse victim. A lead ‘gingerbread man’ from Carystus was apparently crafted so that it could be flattened and used as a curse tablet.
Louvre voodoo dollAdditionally, some dolls were crafted specifically for erotic attraction spells, as in the Egyptian entwined couple type depicting a male and female in an erotic position.
Breaking the Curse
Like the curse tablets, if the dolls were found, the curse could be deactivated. Sophronious (late vi CE) tells of how Theophilus of Alexandria was rendered tetraplegic. His friends had summoned the devil to instill pain in all of his limbs. Saints appeared to Theophilus in dreams and told him to hire a fisherman to go out to sea. The fisherman caught a small box that was locked and sealed with lead in his net. Inside was a bronze effigy of Theophilus with a nail driven though each limb. As each nail was withdrawn, Theophilus was released from his pain and paralysis in the corresponding limb. (Sophronius, Account of the miracles of Saints Cyrus and John)
A Picture
Here’s a picture of one of the most elaborate ancient voodoo dolls from the 2-3 centuries CE.
Reference
- Ogden, Daniel. “Binding Spells: Curse Tablets and Voodoo Dolls in the Greek and Roman Worlds.” Witchcraft and Magic in Europe: Ancient Greece and Rome. University of Pennsylvania Press (November 1999) ISBN: 0812217055
The voodoo doll head is thought to serve as a conduit for these magical intentions. While the concept of a voodoo doll head may seem intimidating or even malevolent to some, it is important to remember that voodoo is a legitimate religious practice that holds deep cultural significance for many people. It is not about causing harm or controlling others, but rather about connecting with the spirits and seeking guidance and healing. In conclusion, a bewitching voodoo doll head is a powerful symbol in voodoo culture, representing the connection to the spiritual realm and the ability to influence and manipulate various aspects of life. While it may have a mysterious and often misunderstood reputation, it is important to approach voodoo with an open mind and respect for its rich cultural traditions..
Reviews for "The Art of Voodoo: How Voodoo Doll Heads Inspire Artists and Creators"
1. Jane - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the Bewitching voodoo doll head. The quality of the product was subpar, and it didn't live up to my expectations. The doll head looked poorly made and the stitching was coming undone. It also didn't look like the picture on the website at all. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this product to anyone looking for a high-quality voodoo doll head.
2. Mark - 1 star - The Bewitching voodoo doll head was a complete waste of money. It arrived damaged and the paint was chipped off in several places. Even if it had arrived in good condition, the quality of the doll head was extremely poor. The materials used felt cheap and flimsy, and it didn't look anything like a traditional voodoo doll head. I was really disappointed with this purchase and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - I was not impressed with the Bewitching voodoo doll head. It was much smaller than expected, and the details were poorly executed. The stitching was uneven and the colors weren't vibrant as depicted in the product images. It felt like a cheap knock-off rather than an authentic voodoo doll head. I was hoping for a better quality product and I didn't feel like I got my money's worth.