Brazilian silver penca de balangandan wall charm with 7 (one missing) suspended charms. On top at either side of the amulet/charm is a dove, symbolizing both the holy spirit, all the Christian martyrs and Iroco. "Balangandan" describes the sound made by the charms when the wearer moves about. The development of the "pencas" stems from the arrival in Bahia of Portuguese colonizers and of their West African slaves from places like Angola, Congo and Benin. They were considered a powerful protection against bad luck and evil spirits.

Dimensions:
 Amulet - 7.00 " W x 9.00 " H x 4.50 "D; 
 Chain - 19.00 " L ; 

Worn condition. Missing eighth charm, only the leaves are still attached. Sold "as is."