Haitian

Artist unknown

Haiti
Veve of Atibon Legba 2003.0023

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In Haitian vodou, vèvè are ritual drawings used to consecrate sacred spaces. They are normally drawn on the ground, embroidered on ritual flags, or painted or hung on the wall, such as with this iron example. Each vodou deity has its own vèvè, although each drawing contains some combination of a circle and a cross. Legba, frequently called Atibon Legba, holds a very important place in vodou. Legba is the guardian of the crossroads that link the spiritual world with the human or mundane world. As a "key" holder to the gates, he is often associated with Saint Peter and is derived from the Yoruba deity Exu in Nigeria. As evidence of Legba's powerful role, all vodou ceremonies begin with an offering to this deity.

 

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