I was in Cuba for a whole of two weeks with nothing more than a mere sighting of a wand that I could only assume was once used as a ceremonial tool by a Santero while practicing Santería. I quickly scanned the area in the hostel-like home I was in hoping to find other items to strike up a conversation on the subject, but no luck. All I saw was a cowry shell and feather wand in this "casa particular".

Then on my final day, after pushing my disappointment aside, I stumbled upon it. Actually, I'm not sure whether I found it or it found me... but it was real and authentic nonetheless.

Read More