WHAT THE IMAGES MEAN

THERIANTHROPES These symbolise shamans who are in a trance state. They transform into animals and enter the spirit realm where they can speak to the dead.

CURING RITUAL The sick person lies on the floor with their knees tucked up, while a shaman bends over them and the other members of the group dance in a circle to draw out the “arrows of sickness”.

THE RAIN ANIMAL The San saw rain as a living, breathing animal. They went into a trance to “capture” the imaginary animal to bring rain. Loud thunderstorms were associated with the male rain animal and soft showers were seen as brought about by the female rain animals.

THE TRANSFORMED SHAMAN This shaman has hooves and feathers as he transforms to enter the spirit realm.