Wolf Figurines In Shamanism And Western Society
Considering the hectic nature of contemporary culture, it should come as no surprise that people are looking to their ancestors for advice. Today, many people are introduced to shamanism through books, workshops, and seminars. While indigenous people feel that only harm can come of mixing and abstracting traditions, it has not daunted people from going on vision quests and taking part in sweat lodges. Because the wolf is such an enigmatic and mysterious creature, many people interested in shamanism keep collections of wolf figurines. Typically the wolf or coyote is associated with tricksters, or spirits that may or may not be helpful to humans. In some myth systems, they are credited with bringing fire to humans. Other cultures view them as something akin to nuisances. One thing is for certain, a wolf spirit, or wolf shaman is likely to stir things up wherever they go. Wolf figurines can be associated with this, as well as the sense of wisdom that people associate with canines. In some cases, shamanic practitioners may even have wolf figurines that depict only the head and some of the pelt. They are often worn over the shaman's head during various ceremonies. You may often see shamans represented this way in drawings even if they are not specifically dedicated to serving the wolf spirits. Some of the most evocative wolf figurines also depict a shaman dressed this way. In contemporary culture, the cartoon character Wile E. Coyote is a perfect example of how many people view wolves. While this amusing character rarely ever meets up with Bugs Bunny, he certainly has been depicted in many wolf figurines. Even adults adults may be drawn to purchasing replicas of this infamous cartoon character. Interestingly enough, it was a female wolf that nursed Romulus and Remus, the twin founders of Rome. While contemporary wolf figurines do not often depict them with babies, you may find antique items of this nature from Rome. Other parts of Italy may also have local stories that they illustrate with wolf figurines. In some cases, business owners and managers might want to keep wolf figurines in their office. Among other things, the wolf has always symbolized controlled power and alertness. If you have ever seen wolves in nature, it should be no wonder that business people might want to have some reminders of what power and control look like. Today, wolf figurines are popular amongst certain groups of people. In particular, shamans will often purchase wolf figurines in an effort to draw closer to what they feel is their totem animal. Because the wolf has played an integral role in foundation of Rome, it can also be thought of as having played a key role in the founding of western civilization. That said, if you are a business owner, you might find wolf figurines help give you a sense of power and control. Chances are their enigmatic presence in your office is sure to draw the attention of all those who visit you.
| 
