1 Authentic New Orleans Voodoo Doll New Orleans is a city spilling over with unique traditions, cultures, and beliefs. One of these captivating practices is the art of Voodoo, which has been a part of the city's fabric for centuries. Voodoo dolls are an iconic symbol associated with this mystical and intriguing spiritual practice. An authentic New Orleans Voodoo doll holds immense significance within the Voodoo religion and is believed to possess magical powers. These dolls are expertly handcrafted by skilled artisans, ensuring every stitch and detail is intricately crafted. The dolls are designed to resemble human figures and are typically made with natural materials such as cloth, twigs, herbs, and moss.

Who Is Lasher in AMC's 'Mayfair Witches'? Anne Rice Loved a Complicated "Man"

Anne Rice was more than just a writer of vampires. In her 'Mayfair Witches' series, now a show on AMC, she introduces us to Lasher. Who or what is he?

Jan. 13 2023, Published 7:05 p.m. ET

Jack Huston as Lasher

Spoiler alert: This article contains spoilers for the Mayfair Witches book series and therefore potential spoilers for AMC's Mayfair Witches TV series.

Over 25 years ago Anne Rice was trying to get a movie made about The Witching Hour, the book Season 1 of AMC's Mayfair Witches is based on. She was frustrated with WarnerBrothers' lack of knowledge about the source material and didn't seem to trust Hollywood with her vision. Unfortunately the studio would own the property for another three and a half years.

Fortunately AMC procured the rights to The Witching Hour along with its two sequels, and have finally given us a series based on the titular Mayfair Witches. In Episode 1 we meet a few of them and are also introduced to a "man" called Lasher (played by Jack Huston) who is linked to the family in some mysterious way. Who or what is Lasher? Here's what we know.

Jack Huston as Lasher

The dolls are designed to resemble human figures and are typically made with natural materials such as cloth, twigs, herbs, and moss. In Voodoo practice, the dolls act as a conduit to channel energy and influence events in the physical world. Each doll is considered unique, created with a specific purpose or intention in mind.

OK, we give up — is Lasher a ghost or what?

On the show, we meet Lasher in the 1980s while he is strangely attached to a young Deirdre Mayfair (Cameron Inman). He is perceived as both sinister and dangerous by her aunt, and loving by Deirdre herself. Lasher bestows little gifts upon Deirdre such as rose petals falling from the sky. What we quickly learn is not only is Deirdre the only one he can appear to, but it is Deirdre's love that empowers him. And it is that love that will cost Deirdre her sanity.

In the book The Witching Hour, we discover that Lasher has been part of the Mayfair family for generations. He is called into being by Suzanne Mayfair in the 17th century, in Scotland. In return for power and wealth, Lasher tells Suzanne that the family must engage in incest so that with each generation a witch strong enough to command him will be born. That is not what Lasher is after. Who would want to be spend their existence being under the control of another?

Lasher's actual plan is for a baby to be born through which he can be reincarnated. What we eventually learn in the subsequent books is, Lasher was once human and it is his goal to be human again. Will this come to fruition? Well, you'll have to read the books or keep an eye on AMC's Mayfair Witches. In the meantime, let's dig into the actor playing Lasher.

They can be used for various purposes, such as healing, protection, love spells, or even to bring harm to others. The power of the doll is believed to lie in the connection it has to the person it represents. To create an authentic New Orleans Voodoo doll, the artisan imbues it with various items and charms that amplify its power. These may include personal belongings, such as strands of hair or pieces of clothing from the person for whom the doll is intended. Additionally, herbs, oils, or powders associated with specific intentions are added to enhance the desired outcome. However, it is essential to note that Voodoo dolls are not intended for malicious purposes or dark magic, as commonly portrayed in media. In the Voodoo religion, the focus is on healing, protection, and positive transformation. The dolls serve as a tool to manifest these intentions and bring about desired results. Voodoo dolls are not mere playthings or novelties; they are sacred objects with great spiritual significance. They deserve to be respected and handled with reverence. Whether one believes in the power of Voodoo or not, these dolls are intricately woven into the tapestry of New Orleans culture and history. Visiting New Orleans, one can find numerous shops and markets that offer authentic Voodoo dolls. Each doll tells a unique story, representing a deep-rooted spiritual tradition that has stood the test of time. Acquiring an authentic New Orleans Voodoo doll allows one to connect with the rich history and mysticism of this ancient spiritual practice. In conclusion, an authentic New Orleans Voodoo doll is a symbol of the city's vibrant culture and spiritual legacy. Crafted with care and intention, these dolls are believed to possess magical properties and serve as conduits for positive transformation in the physical world. Exploring the significance of these dolls opens a window into the captivating world of Voodoo, where tradition, belief, and mysticism intertwine..

Reviews for "The Influence of Authentic New Orleans Voodoo Dolls in Popular Culture"

1. Sarah - 2 stars: I was really excited to receive the "1 authentic New Orleans voodoo doll" as a gift, but I was disappointed with the product. The doll itself looked cheap and poorly made. It didn't have the intricate details or craftsmanship that I expected. Additionally, the packaging was flimsy and the doll arrived with some damage. Overall, I felt like I wasted my money on this item and would not recommend it.

2. John - 1 star: This "1 authentic New Orleans voodoo doll" was a complete joke. I purchased it hoping to add an interesting and unique item to my collection, but it fell extremely short of my expectations. Not only was the doll poorly made, but it also lacked any sort of authenticity. It seemed more like a cheap toy than a genuine representation of New Orleans Voodoo culture. Save your money and look elsewhere if you're looking for an authentic voodoo doll.

3. Emma - 2 stars: I was really disappointed with the "1 authentic New Orleans voodoo doll" I purchased. The product description promised an authentic representation of voodoo culture, but what I received was far from it. The doll felt cheap and lacked any sort of craftsmanship. Additionally, it came with a printed copy of a vague "voodoo spell" that felt more like a gimmick than anything genuine. Overall, I felt like I wasted my money on a poorly made and misleading product.

4. Mark - 1 star: I regret purchasing the "1 authentic New Orleans voodoo doll" as it was a complete letdown. The doll itself was poorly made with sloppy stitching and cheap materials. The supposed authenticity was nowhere to be found. Furthermore, the packaging was lackluster, and the doll arrived with a strong chemical smell. I would strongly advise against buying this product if you're looking for an authentic and high-quality voodoo doll.

The Making of Authentic New Orleans Voodoo Dolls: Materials and Techniques