Large Brazilian Silver Balanganda

This large balanganda votive set of silver alloy metal comprises a ring-like structure cast with perched birds on each side, from which suspended are nine talismanic items –  fruits and vegetables and vases decorated with flowers. Among the suspended charms is a cob of corn, and pomegranates. Included is a heavy silver chain to allow the balanganda to be suspended from the waist. The elements show traces of gilding.

Balangada have the most extraordinarily evocative histories: they were worn at the waist by black and mulatto women, often indentured, mostly in the Brazilian coastal state of Bahia, during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as amulets. They were worn suspended from a heavy chain that went around the waist, often accompanied by thick silver bracelets, a multitude of heavy silver rings and necklaces. Typically, such sets were added to as their owners could afford to buy more items. Balangada were made by black silversmiths and illustrate the coexistence of African superstitions with Christian beliefs in Brazil.

Several balanganda are illustrated in Taullard (2004). Another set, illustrated in Stratton-Pruitt (2013, p. 84).

Such sets occasionally turn up in England, often around Liverpool. Interestingly, Liverpool was the main seaport in the 18th and 19th century which was at the heart of the so-called ‘triangle’ trade whereby merchant ships transported slaves from Africa to Brazil (typically calling in at Bahia from where balanganda sets are believed to originate), and then sugar from Bahia to Liverpool, and from Liverpool, manufactured items to Africa. It is likely that English sailors souvenired the balanganda sets from Bahia and brought them home to Liverpool as gifts for family members.

The set here is in fine condition.

Above: A late 19th century photograph of a Brazilian woman wearing a silver balanganda near her waist.