Rare and antique Brazilian Penca de Balangandan with 11 big Charms, some Friut and Vegetables, Figa included. A Vintage Rare Brass and Copper Hand Made Brazilian Slave PENCA De BALANGANDAN with 11 Charms on Bird holder. This one comes with a chain for wall hanging. These charms or good luck pieces were first worn by African slaves in Brazil in the 17th and 18th centuries. They are called "Penca de Balangandan" and were common in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The charms or amulets were sometimes given to slaves by the plantation owner as a reward for good behavior or loyal service or to mark special occasions. The shapes have different meanings. Penca were usually made of silver, brass, or copper and could be worn as a necklace or bracelet or pinned to a garment. Some were hung in doorways to ward off evil or for good luck. The shape of this holder symbolizes the boat that brought slaves from Africa. The holder opens to put or remove the charms and locks with a threaded key. The two birds facing each other on the holder represent Africa and Brazil. Measurements: 26 cm (10") long (including the charms) and 24 cm (10") wide (including the charms).