Nkisi Sarabanda Signature Of The Spirit Unisex Hoodie

Nkisi Sarabanda symbolizes the signature of the spirit. It is an adaptation of a Bakongo cosmogram. 

Zarrabanda, also called Sarabanda, is a spirit of iron and an immensely powerful shaman, sorcerer, healer, and warrior. He is a great ally for those seeking protection, as he is afraid of nothing. In addition to protection, he is invoked for help with employment.

Sarabanda means"the highest spirit". Part of the symbol takes the form of a cross, because the Congolese had an inclination towards Christianity. Communication appears to take place at the center of the cross, where the worlds intersect, and it was believed that spirits were at the center of the sign.

The arrows represent the four winds of the universe, and the symbol as a whole resembles the form of a spiral galaxy; this indicates their interest in astronomy and beliefs towards nature. 

The design is complete with gusts of wind across both sleeves and an unlikely skeleton on the back. The Congolese have an affinity for their wildlife, as they care deeply about its survival. One animal in particular vibrates deeply with the Congolese, and that is the gorilla. So, we incorporated the gorilla into the artwork here to reflect the deeper meaning of the symbol.

This symbol also contains African and American cultural elements showing the blending of the two cultures. It is a melting pot and shows how the early Congo-Angolans brought their cultures into the America that they helped to create. 

Information credited from National Parks Service Used Under Public Domain For Educational Purposes*

Digital Artwork by Konrad Maslanek

Unisex fit*

• 70% polyester, 27% cotton, 3% elastane
• Fabric weight: 8.85 oz/yd² (300 g/m²), weight may vary by 5%
• Soft cotton-feel fabric face
• Brushed fleece fabric inside
• Double-lined hood with design on both sides
• Unisex style
• Comes with drawstrings
• Overlock seams

Size guide