Showcasing the art and ritual of the African and African-diaspora religions

Brazilian Altar Piece for the Snake God

Catalog Number: C035

Dimensions:

40.5 cm tall

(centimeters)

Religion and Denomination: Candomblé (Brazil)
Country of Origin: Brazil
Ethnographic Origin: Brazilian (Brazil)
Materials: Plastic
Usage: N/A
Detailed Description of Significance:

This staff represents the god Besseim or Oxumarê.  Besseim/Oxumarê  is the snake god and is usually depicted with snakes and a spear.    This god of wealth is also embodied in the rainbow, which also serves in their staff as one of his symbols.  Some say that he is female half the year and male the other half.   which is why the rainbow is his symbol.