Snake Temple Vodun Religion, Ouidah Benin, Large 1870s Antique Print & Article

Description: Rare original antique print from an 1870s illustrated journal. It depicts a snake temple in Ouidah, Benin. A fowl is being sacraficed with rum, maize and palm oil as part of the the Vodun Religion. On the ack of the print is a long article on the subject. Ouidah (hydah, Juida, Juda, Ajudá, Fida), formerly the Kingdom of Whydah, is a city on the coast of the Republic of Benin. The snakes are a major totem for followers of Vodun, a religion practiced by groups of people within West and Central African nations such as Ghana, Togo, and Benin.Vodun is practiced by the Fon people of Benin, and southern and central Togo; as well in Ghana, and Nigeria.It is distinct from the various traditional African religions in the interiors of these countries and is the main source of religions with similar names found among the African diaspora in the Americas, such as Haitian Vodou; Cuban Vodú; Brazilian Vodum (candomblé jeje and tambor de mina); Puerto Rican Vudú (Sanse); and Louisiana Voodoo. Vodun became somewhat widespread in southern regions of the New World as a result of the African diaspora. It became the inspiration for other religions such as Louisiana Voodoo and Haitian Vodou. Snakes are important religious symbols and are highly respected. According to the theology, a rainbow serpent named Dan is an important deity that serves as a middleman between the living and the spirits.The print is very large (folio size), measuring approximately 11 x 15 inches (28 x 38 cm). The picture fills most of it, measuring about 9 x 13 inches, with a caption below it. The page is in excellent condition for its age. There is text/photos on the back of the print. See scan for an accurate view of the condition. This print will come with a Certificate of Authenticity. Powered by SixBit's eCommerce Solution

Price: 149.95 USD

Location: Lake Villa, Illinois

End Time: 2025-01-18T03:29:27.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD