Toad Animal Totem with Cup and Ring

A totem is a sacred/magical object and for many of us there is a certain animal that we are inexplicably drawn to. This toad spirit is made by hand in stoneware clay, carved with a cup and ring mark, which are often found in cave and stone markings across the globe with many located here in the UK on the moors. Their precise meaning remains unknown but they date primarily from the Neolithic period through to the Early Bronze Age between 6000 and 3500 years old. It has been fired twice and coated in a green shino glaze oxide that has been hand-painted on to give a rustic and aged feel. 

We’re all drawn to different animals and the concept of spirit animals resonates strongly with many of us. In shamanic belief systems, spirit animals—often called power animals or animal guides—are an example of the living manifestations of animism.

The toad is an unusual kinship as a spirit guide for most people, until you move into certain circles interested in a more gnostic outlook. In ancient Egypt, they were associated with the goddess Heqet, the creator. In Greek mythology, with Hecate, the witch goddess, and in European folklore they were believed to have healing powers and were associated with alchemy.  They are believed to symbolise transformation (due to the metamorphosis throughout their life cycle), regeneration, adaptability to different environments and are also associated with fertility, prosperity and abundance in many cultures across the globe.

Weight: 580g

Height: 14.5cm

Width: 8cm

PLEASE NOTE: Because of technical reasons, colours may appear different on your screen. We do not edit colours' saturation; they look different in different lights. Our items are handmade and are not 'perfect' in every sense. They will bear the marks of the handmade pottery creation process that is missing from mass produced items.