Antique Spirit Lock Hmong Masterpiece 2

Antique Spirit Lock 2 Gorgeous granulation technique rarely seen this fine Approx. 2" tall x 3" wide Spirit Locks are metal padlock shape charms worn around the neck, usually in back, by Hmong and Miao Hill Tribes in Thailand and Laos. They function as a Talisman/ Amulet to 'lock' the Soul of the wearer into their body in the case of illness, accident or spiritual depression or distress. Traditional Hmong believe that humans have several Souls. Sometimes these Souls can fall into conflict and may even leave the body. A person could lose a Soul if badly frightened or in times of trauma or tragedy. Outside causes might allow or even encourage a foreign spirit to enter a person's body causing illness and physical, mental and emotional distress. To rebalance and bring about a remedy, a Shaman would perform a Soul Calling Ceremony, casting out unwanted spirits or calling good spirits back into the patient's body. The wearer's Souls were then protected by the placement of a Spirit Lock Amulet.  It was considered good luck to give newborn babies Spirit Locks to protect them from Evil Spirits, and these cherished amulets were sometimes worn throughout the entire life of the owner.  Silver jewellery is highly valued wealth in Hmong Tradition and Spirit Locks are usually made of High Grade Silver (95% or above).