helmet: 9.50" x 15.50" x 9.75"
241.30 mm x 393.70 mm x 247.64 mm
breastplate: 12.75" x 13.50" x 11.50"
323.85 mm x 342.90 mm x 292.10 mm
armbands: 4.75" x 4.75" x 3.75"
120.65 mm x 120.65 mm x 95.25 mm
bracelets: 4.50" x 3.50" x 4.50"
114.30 mm x 88.90 mm x 114.30 mm
pouches (without chains): 6.63" x 6.75" x 0.75"
168.40 mm x 171.45 mm x 19.05 mm
pendant (without chain): 5.00" x 6.00" x 1.25"
127.00 mm x 152.40 mm x 31.75 mm
sword: 17.25" x 4.25" x 3.00"
438.15 mm x 107.95 mm x 76.20 mm
shield: 11.25" x 9.25" x 2.38"
285.75 mm x 234.95 mm x 60.45 mm
pestle: 16.25" x 2.38" x 2.31"
412.75 mm x 60.45 mm x 58.67 mm
Images used in the metalwork signify aspects of the god Oxaguiã, also known as Oxala. According to Amilton Sacramento Costa, the elephants indicate that “ivory belongs to Oxala,” as one of her attributes. The doves represent peace, because “Oxala is the owner of peace.” However, the set includes a sword and shield because Oxaguiã is a warrior avatar of Oxala. The pestle is used to pound yams.
The heart-shaped pouches (capangas) are stylized versions of pouches worn by hunters. The pendant (pulvarim) features a bow, arrow, and two cylinders that may represent gunpowder holders or quivers.
Costa says that the bracelets and armlets are a Brazilian invention and are for decorative purposes only.
Contact
Sacred Arts of the Black Atlantic Project, Duke University
Box 90091
Durham, NC 27708
Email
jm217@duke.edu