In folk magic and
witchcraft, a
poppet (also known as
poppit,
moppet,
mommet or
pippy) is a doll made to represent a person, for casting spells on them, or aiding that person through magic.
They are occasionally found lodged in chimneys.
These dolls may be fashioned from materials such as carved root, grain, corn shafts, fruit, paper, wax, a potato, clay, branches, or cloth stuffed with herbs, with the intent that any actions performed upon the
effigy will be transferred to the subject based on sympathetic magic.
Poppets are also used as
kitchen witch figures.
Etymology
The word
poppet is a variant of
puppet, from
Middle English popet, meaning a small child or a doll. In
British English it continues to hold this meaning.
Poppet is also a chiefly British term of endearment or diminutive referring to a young child,
[ Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Random House, Inc. 2006. 17 Nov. 2006.] much like the words "dear" or "sweetie."
Purpose
Poppets are commonly believed, in folk magic, to serve as spirit bridges. A poppet can be designed for benevolent purposes, such as the wishing of good health or opportunities on the recipient, or for more malicious intents, such as bringing harm onto the person they represent.
Poppets throughout the world
Throughout the world, each culture has their own version of a poppet.
Poppet doll materials vary across cultures, and, most importantly, the motive or intentions for the poppet.
Types of Poppets
German kitchen witch
The origin of the German kitchen witch poppet is debated by many. One suggested location for the kitchen poppet's origin is Scandinavia, although the first mentions of it poppet in writing come from England.
The kitchen witch poppet is intended to bring good energy into the home kitchen, and prevent kitchen disasters. Many of these common kitchen errors can include lowering the risk of food coming out bad such as having the meal burnt, or undercooked. In order for these intentions to be upheld, it is believed that a prayer or a ritual will be needed, due to the idea of the kitchen being one of the most important places in the household, as the source of remedies or basic nutrition to maintain the body.
Love poppet
A love poppet may be used for the healing of oneself, for displaying affection to loved ones, or to foster relationships or couples. Objects that are put inside the poppet could be
rose quartz, petals of the recipient's favourite flowers. Small belongings of the intended person, placed within the poppet, can also serve as a way to make it more connected to the intent.
Prosperity poppet
The prosperity poppet could be used in hoping for a good outcome in one's life through school, work, physical status, or financial status.
[2]
Healing poppet
Healing poppets may be intended to grant good health mentally, physically and emotionally. In this poppet it is common to include objects traditionally associated with healing, such as rose quartz, rose petals, and sage to cleanse the body and mind.
[3]
Protection poppet
These poppets are designed for spiritual protection of a person's family and loved ones, and the removal of supposed curses or bad luck. These poppets may be designed to physically resemble their intended person. They may also include items such as
hematite and
amethyst, in addition to
basil,
patchouli, and
coffee.
[4]
See also
6. All About Love Magic February 9, 2020
7. What is Lodestone? April 4, 2019
8. Gods and Goddesses of Healing April 26, 2019
9. Protection Magic June 25, 2019
