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CURIO | FETICHE | MILLINERY | VOODOO POPPETS |
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Hoodoo | Voodoo PoppetsReligious practices of contemporary Vodou are descended from, and closely related to, West African Vodun as practiced by the Fon and Ewe. Vodou also incorporates elements and symbolism from other African peoples including the Yoruba and Kongo; as well as Taíno religious beliefs, Roman Catholicism, and European spirituality including mysticism and other influences. Vodou has often been associated in popular culture with Satanism, witchcraft, zombies and "voodoo dolls". Zombie creation has been referenced within rural Haitian culture, but is not a part of Vodou. Such manifestations fall under the auspices of the bokor or sorcerer, rather than the priest of the loa. The practice of sticking pins in voodoo dolls or poppets has history in folk magic and witchcraft, A doll is made to represent a person, for casting spells on that person or to aid that person through magic. The zombie of Haitian Vodou is completely different from stories created in Hollywood and American pop culture. In Haiti, the term zonbi refers to a person who has lost his or her soul. This soul-less state has a particular horror because it harkens back to the condition of slavery in colonial Haiti. In Haitian Vodou practice, dolls are never stuck with pins. And certainly, causing harm to another person is against Vodou ethics. This misunderstanding could stem from the Vodou practice of hanging dolls to tree branches to send messages to the spirits of deceased loved ones. Dolls are sometimes used as parts of religious statues, but they usually represent specific spirits (lwa) or attributes of spirits The use of the term Voodoo implies that the practice has links to either the religion of Haitian Vodou or Louisiana Voodoo, in reality, it does not have a prominent place in either. "Voodoo dolls" are often associated with New Orleans Voodoo and Hoodoo as well the magical devices of the poppet and the nkisi or bocio of West and Central Africa. The form of the voodoo doll as it is most commonly understood, is based on a magical practice that historically derived from Europe rather than Africa or the Americas. Textual records attest to the fact that certain cunning folk in Britain made dolls of a witch out of rags and other materials and then pierced them with pins with the intention of inflicting physical harm on the witch and breaking their bewitchment. The Hoodoo doll is a form of gris-gris and an example of sympathetic magic. Contrary to popular belief, Hoodoo dolls are usually used to bless and have no power to curse. The purpose of sticking pins in the doll is not to cause pain in the associated person, but rather to pin a picture of a person or a name to the doll, which traditionally represents a spirit. The gris-gris is performed from one of four categories: love; power and domination; luck and finance; and uncrossing. The link between this magical practice and Voodoo was established through the presentation of the latter in Western popular culture during the first half of the 20th century. In this, the myth of this magical practice being closely linked to Voodoo and Vodou was promoted as part of the wider negative depictions of blacks and Afro-Caribbean religious practices in the United States.
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Santa MuerteNuestra Señora de la Santa Muerte ˈNwestra Señora de la Santa Mweɾte (Spanish for Our Lady of the Holy Death), often shortened to Santa Muerte, is an idol, female deity or folk saint in Mexican and Mexican-American folk Catholicism. A personification of death, she is associated with healing, protection, and safe delivery to the afterlife. Despite condemnation by leaders of the Catholic Church,and Evangelical movements as invalid, her following has become increasingly firmly entrenched in Mexican culture since the turn of the 21st century. Also known as Lady of Shadows, Lady of Night, White Lady, Black Lady, Skinny Lady, Bony Lady, Mictecacihuatl (Lady of the Dead). Santa Muerte posseses a wide variety of powers including love, prosperity, good health, fortune, healing, safe passage, protection against witchcraft, protection against assaults, protection against gun violence, protection against violent death. Earliest temple is the Shrine of Most Holy Death founded by Enriqueta Romero in Mexico City. Her attributes are the scythe, representing the moment of death, when it is said to cut a silver thread and reach anywhere, a globe (representing Death's vast power and dominion over the earth), scale of justice, hourglass (represents the time of life on earth and also the belief that death is not the end, as the hourglass can be inverted to start over), oil lamp (The hourglass denotes Santa Muerte's relationship with time as well as with the worlds above and below . It also symbolizes patience. An owl symbolizes her ability to navigate the darkness and her wisdom. The owl is also said to act as a messenger. And an oil lamp, symbolizes intelligence and spirit, to light the way through the darkness of ignorance and doubt. She is decorated in many styles, robes, crowns, hats, colours. Images of the figure vary widely from devotee to devotee and according to the rite being performed or the petition being made. Altar candle colors are representative of its purpose. Color symbolism central to devotion and ritual. There are three main colors associated with Santa Muerte: red, white, and black. Santa Muerte is a multifaceted saint, with various symbolic meanings and her devotees can call upon her a wide range of reasons. The candles are placed on altars and devotees turn to specific colored candles depending on their circumstance. Some keep the full range of colored candles while others focus on one aspect of Santa Muerte's spirit. Santa Muerte is called upon for matters of the heart, health, money, wisdom, and justice. There is the brown candle of wisdom, the white candle of gratitude and consecration, the black candle for protection and vengeance, the red candle of love and passion, the gold candle for monetary affairs, the green candle for crime and justice, the purple candle for healing. The black votive candle is lit for prayer in order to implore La Flaca's protection and vengeance. It is associated with "black magic" and witchcraft. It is not regularly seen at devotional sites, and is usually kept and lit in the privacy of one's home. One of Santa Muerte's more popular uses is in matters of the heart. The red candle that symbolizes love is helpful in various situations having to do with love. Her initial main purpose was in that of love magic during the colonial era in Mexico, which may have been derived from the love magic being brought over from Europe. Her origins are still unclear but it is possible that the image of the European Grim Reaper combined with the indigenous celebrations of death are at the root of La Flaca's existence, in so that the use of love magic in Europe and that of pre-Columbian times that was also merging during colonization may have established the saint as manipulator of love. The majority of anthropological writings on Santa Muerte discuss her significance as provider of love magic and miracles She is celebrated November 2, August 15, on dia de los muertos Day of the Dead.
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Yemoja--YemayaISESE the Root of the Roots Yemayá, Yemònja or Yemòja is the queen of the water and her body are all the rivers, lakes and sea flow from her. Ye-mo-ja origins from the name Yeye–Omo-Eja, mother of the fish. The word Omo is used in a generic sense. Currently it is associated with the Ògún River and a cult pays in those areas where the river runs, particularly in Abeokut Yemoja has no caminos, only aspects or traits. She is the mother of waters and is found in the rivers. Therefore, she is considered a water orisa. Yemayá, Yemònja or Yemòja was born in the Takua land which is where the Ògún River begins in Nigeria. It is for this reason that this zone has turn to a place of pilgrimage for countless devotees. Yemayá, Yemònja or Yemòja is a deity who is associated with dolls, she is carved in precious wood or molded in white clay just like the one I have in my shrine decorated with cowries and she carries secret loads depending on the path she is meant for. When she is on earth she enjoys living in the entrance of the bushes and she is a hard worker, she also trades food, dyed fabrics and makes oil out of melon seeds. The children of Yemayá, Yemònja or Yemòja are not allowed to eat watercress or a plant called quimbombo because they are the most powerful herbs of Yemayá. LUKUMI Yemayá (also spelled Yemoja, Iemoja, or Yemaya), is one of the most powerful orishas in Santeria. Queen of Abeokutá, who's name comes from the Yorùbá Yemòjá (Yeyé: mother - Omo: son - Eyá: Fish) literally mother of the fish. She is the mother of all creation and rules over motherhood and all the waters of the earth. She gave birth to the stars, the moon, the sun and most of the orishas. Daughter of Olokun, for that reason she is related to the sea. Yemayá Asesu is Olokun's messenger. She was wife of Obbatala, Orunla, Aggayu, Babalu ayé, Orisha Oko and in one of her ways of Oggun. Sister of Oshún. Yemayá resides in the life-giving portion of the ocean, although some of her caminos can be found in lagoons or lakes in the forest. She is a loving, nurturing, protective orisha, and a fierce warrior that kills anyone who threatens her children.Each road has a slightly different temperament and is found in a different place in nature. All roads of Yemaya are called “Ibú” and each takes a slightly different shade of blue in her eleke. Her number is the 7 and its multiples. Her color is blue and its tonalities. She is greeted Omío Yemaya Omoloddé! Yemaya Ataramawa! Olokun is revered as as the ruler of all bodies of water and one of the most commanding Orishas in the Yoruba religion. An androgynous Orisha that can take on any form. The guardian of the deepest depths of the sea, Olokun is the owner of the oceans and all of the riches that they possess. In the Candomblé religion of Brazil, Olokun is venerated as the mother of Yemoja and the owner of the sea. When someone dies in the sea, rather than immediately beginning to join with their ancestors, they may stay with Olokun until she/he decides to release them. Sailors will give offerings of shells to Olokun and the ancestors in the sea before departing on their voyages.
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Can I cancel my order?All sales are final, due to the nature of made to order items. Some exceptions may apply within 24 hours of placement of an order. Cancellation fees may apply. All altar statues, fetiche statues, mixed media sculptures, OOAK art sculptures, commissioned sculptures or paintings, and Santa Muerte altar statues in production do not qualify for exceptions.
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Do you ship internationally?We do ship internationally upon request when paying via Paypal checkout. International rates are often much more expensive shipping from states to over seas, versus international to US. Please inquire and we would be happy to quote rates based on item (s) you are seeking to purchase. garden_of_bloodandbone@protonmail.com
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Can I request specific intent on curio items?All items are made with intent for protection and come with ase'. You may request a specific intent on certain items such as poppets, or Santa Muerte. Additional fees may apply, depending on request. We do not accept requests or payment for ill-intent, or brujeria services for vindictive, malicious purposes of any kind. Such requests are "you-problems" that can only be worked out by addressing yourself. Anyone who will take your money for such things, is doing just that - taking your money.
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Can I request "fixed" Voodoo poppets or fetiches?All poppets and fetiches are made with intent for protection. We do not offer "fixing" beyond this.
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What is the item significance of chicken feet?The significance of chicken feet and bones etc., varies from natural curios, charms, talismans, and fetish objects, offerings and cleanings, to tools of divination. One need not be a practitioner of Candomblé, Palo, Santeria, Vodoun, Vodou, or conjurer or rootworker of Hoodoo. Items are sold as decorative pieces and are not created with specific intent, unless requested by the buyer. Some items have a specific purpose, while others are merely authentic recreations. Details will be listed in the item description for each item available. Feel free to contact us with any questions prior to purchasing.
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Do I need to be an initiate or oriate to purchase items?No. You do not need to be an initiate or oriate to purchase items from our shop. Items that have instructions for either-or, will be notated on the specific item so you are provided with the appropriate instructions. If you are simply an admirer and need instruction for proper homage to orisha, loa or Santa Muerte, please notify us prior to ordering, or notate on your order at checkout. Each have their specific days, colors, likes and dislikes etc. Not following these guidelines is considered an offense and can be met with consequences.
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Do you offer commissions?Yes. Commissions are available upon request. Commissioned paintings are strictly exclusive to the buyer. Prints will not be made publicly available at any time. However, use of digital images of the original painting are occasionally used for gallery flyers or advertising etc. Image use is at the discretion of the artist. Typically, 50% is collected up front on larger pieces (100% on smaller work), after the design idea is agreed upon. The balance is collected upon completion of commission prior to shipment. Commissioned OOAK sculptures are paid in full, prior to start of work. Once the idea is agreed upon, the option of a purchase page or direct invoice is set up to submit payment. Receipt of payment initiates the process and your commissioned order is place in que, thus starting the time-frame for completion. Commissioned items cannot be canceled or refunded. Changes to agreed upon work cannot be requested after 48 hours of submitting an order. Additional fees may be incurred within the 48 hour time frame, depending on request. As with all orders, finished pieces are shipped insured with tracking for your protection. Shipment confirmations are emailed upon dispatch of your order, so you may track the progress and delivery. USPS offers tracking updates via text when you sign up for this option. Be advised, high-dollar value items have a default signature for delivery instituted by USPS.
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What are the processing time frames on made to order items?All items are made to order, unless indicated otherwise. Processing time frames will vary from item to item, and as well as commissioned orders We do our best to get items out as quickly as possible. However, we will not rush the process and compromise quality in craftmanship. Timeframe details are noted in the item description and on the order purchase page. Processing times range approximately from 3-5 business days, to 1-2 weeks, prior to shipment. Commissioned orders may take longer, depending on complexity and size of request. See commissions for more details. Please contact us prior to ordering if an item is time sensitive. We will do our best to accommodate your delivery request. Shipping upgrade fees may apply. Processing Estimates Commissioned paintings: 3-8 weeks (depending on size & detail). *After design is agreed upon. Finished original paintings: ship within 2-3 business days Orisha fetish sculptures: 1-2 weeks Commissioned OOAK art sculpture/figures: 2-4 weeks Completed OOAK art sculptures: 1-2 business days Baron Samedi Voodoo top hats: 1-2 weeks Trophy skull shrunken heads: 1-2weeks Reproduction Baron Samedi Voodoo staff: 1 week Baron Samedi standard scepter/staff: 3-5 business days Voodoo poppet: 2-5 business days Chicken foot necklace: 2-3 business days Chicken foot fetish: 2-3 business days Charged chicken feet: 2-3 business days Chicken feet/bone divination set: 2-3 business days
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Why are orders shipped Signature Delivery?All orders that are $100.00 or more are shipped with signature delivery - electronic signature not allowed for the buyers protection. This will require a signature of person (s) at the delivery address, or "in person" when notices are left for pick up. USPS classifies "delivered-not received" as a package delivered to the address on label, that goes missing. Electronic signature only indicates the carrier left the parcel at a location at or near residence (i.e mailbox, front door, back porch, main office etc.). In some cases, the carrier misdelivers a parcel. In this case, the buyer must contact their local post office and request an investigation to locate the package. Insurance does cover loss in this instance.
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What shipping methods are offered?Most items are shipped via USPS Priority Mail insured, with a 3-5 business day delivery time frame. Many orders arrive within 2 business days, depending on location. Express Next Day is not an option being all WY mail is processed in Utah, making express service a 2-Day service. Free Ship items are shipped USPS Ground Advantage insured, with signature delivery - 3-5 business day delivery time frame. Free shipping applies to orders $200 and over. Due to location, FedEx and UPS are not offered, as the closest drop off location is 100+ miles. Exceptions can be made for pickup service. However, a carrier pickup fee of a minimum of $22 plus shipping rate based on carrier will be incurred. Next day services are available via FedEx and UPS at a premium from WY. Please inquire prior to ordering for delivery rates and schedules.
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How does payment via Affirm work?Affirm is a BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) pay-over-time payment option, much like Klarna. When you select this option, a quick approval process is initiated. Basic information is provided to the BNPL provider. When approved, funds are collected by BNPL provider, similar to a credit card transaction. Affirm is a frictionless checkout process when you want to avoid credit cards. The payment terms are clearly laid out to you before you select the "buy" option, so you know exactly what you will pay and when. Affirm offers a choice of how you want to pay, such as an interest-free pay-in-4 plan. Available on purchases of $50 or more.
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How does credit card payment via PayPal work?All credit card payments are accepted via PayPal. You do not have to have a PayPal account to use this payment option. Simply select PayPal checkout option, and you will be redirected to PayPal. Bypass "pay with your PayPal account" and select the pay with Debit or Credit Card option. You will then be prompted to fill out billing and credit card information. Include your email address in order to receive a PayPal receipt for your order. Click "continue" to return to checkout confirmation page and select "submit". Your payment isn't complete until you do so. You still have an option to cancel this payment option and select another method before the "submit" is finalized.
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How does PayPal.Me/gardenofbloodandbone work?PayPal.me/gardenofbloodandbone is an simple, direct alternate payment method via a direct link, versus the PayPal checkout button process. The same PayPal Protection Program applies to your purchase. You will need a PayPal account to use this feature. Simply contact us with the item (s) you wish to purchase, including your name, billing address, and ship to details, and an invoice with total costs and payment link will be emailed to submit payment.
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Do you offer installment payments directly?If you do not qualify for an Affirm BNPL loan, or prefer not to use Affirm on qualifying purchases, we do offer installment payments invoiced via Paypal. A Paypal account is required for this option. Your installment payment frequency will be divided by total payments based on selected frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). An invoice for the full amount will be emailed to you at your email associated with your Paypal account. There is no penalty for early pay-off and you can pay the minimum payment due, or any amount above this. The item (s) ordered will ship upon completion of final payment. Made to order items may ship within a time frame after final payment, depending on commissioned piece. Orders cannot be cancelled once installments begin, and payment schedule begins upon receipt of first payment. If for some reason you need additional time, contact us immediately and we will work with you to adjust your schedule. Your order falls under PayPal Protection.
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How do you measure for top hats?Made to order items are not returnable. Please measure carefully. MEASURE YOUR HEAD: You should measure the circumference of your head half way up your forehead and one finger’s width above your ears. Pull the tape to about the tightness you would like to wear a hat (you can use a string and then measure it if you don't have a tape), but put a finger between the tape and your head to allow for a little room (it’s best not to measure with just the tape measure pulled tight around your head, or you might end up getting a hat that is too tight). Take this measurement 3 times or until you get a consistent reading. Because sizes are approximate and will vary with the style of the hat and the material it's made from, it is best to choose a larger than a smaller one. In between sizes? Dial in the size of hat for a custom fit with assorted pack of hat sizer's. Includes 1 - standard sweat liner, 1 - half size reducer, 1 - full size reducer. + $13.99. Leather top hats automatically come with hat sizers. TOP HAT SIZING: S 6 7/8 (21 - 21 7/8" 54 - 55cm) M 7 1/8 (22' - 22 3/4" 56 - 57cm) L 7 3/8 (22 7/8" - 23 1/2" 58-59cm) XL 7 5/8 (24 3/8" - 24 1/4" 60 - 61cm) 2X 7 7/8 (24 3/8" - 24 7/8" 62 - 63cm) 3X 8 1/8 (25" - 25 5/8" 64 - 65cm)
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How do you care for Leather top hats?Because top hats have a distinctive brim that is sloped downwards in both the front and back, it is important that you DO NOT store your hat on a flat surface for any great length of time. It is best to suspend top hats on a hat cone, hat hanger, or even a coffee can or upturned paper towel roll in a pinch. Never store in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. If your top hat gets wet, store it out on hat cone etc., until dry to prevent mildew. Never dry in direct sunlight, as it can distort the shape of hat. Leather top hats have a removable sweatliner, which can be hand-washed in mild detergent, and air dried. To prevent perspiration staining on hat, sweat liners should be washed frequently, if hat is worn often. To clean your leather hat, a finished leather conditioner is recommended. Follow manufacturers directions. Leather conditioners will keep your hat looking nice as the day you purchased it. Avoid getting conditioner on feathers and non-leather details.
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How do you care for Wool felt top hats?Because top hats have a distinctive brim that is sloped downwards in both the front and back, it is important that you DO NOT store your hat on a flat surface for any great length of time. It is best to suspend top hats on a hat cone, hat hanger, or even a coffee can or upturned paper towel roll in a pinch. Never store in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. If your top hat gets wet, store it out on hat cone etc., until dry to prevent mildew. Never dry in direct sunlight, as it can distort the shape of hat. Wool felt top hats attract lint and dust. To prolong the life of your felt top hat, brushing is important. To remove loose dirt, simply use a hat brush and swipe it away. AVOID using a brush made of Nylon as it may be too abrasive and damage hat. To remove dust, use a slightly damp on-shedding cloth. DO NOT soak hat as you can distort hat shape. Always allow to dry to prevent mildew. To remove lint and hair, use scotch tape or blue painters tape to lightly wipe hat For stubborn smudges and stains, specially formulated hat cleaners are available.
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