Veves should not be confused with the patipembas used in Palo, nor the pontos riscados used in Umbanda and Quimbanda, as these are separate African religions.
According to Milo Rigaud, "The veves represent figures of the astral forces... In the course of Vodou ceremonies, the reproduction of the astral forces represented by the veves obliges the lwa... to descend to earth."[3]
Every lwa has their own unique veve, although regional differences have led to different veves for the same lwa in some cases. Sacrifices and offerings are usually placed upon them, with food and drink being most commonly used.[4]
In ritual and other formalities, veve is usually drawn on the floor by strewing a powder-like substance, commonly cornmeal,[5] wheat flour, bark, red brick powder, or gunpowder, though the material depends entirely upon the ritual. In Haitian Vodou, a mixture of cornmeal and wood ash is used.[citation needed]
Veves use symbolism to communicate which spirit is being called upon - for example, gatekeeper Papa Legba is invoked with a vèvè that features a walking cane, to indicate his jolly grandpa-like demeanor.[5] The illustration also features coded images that reflect the matrilineal and patrilineal culture of the artist, providing information about their ancestral lineage.[5] Offerings will typically be given;[6]inLouisiana Voodoo, this would entail a cup of coffee and/or candies associated with the spirit.[5]
The spirit is generally meant to be invoked in the central cross of the veve.[5]
Veve can be made into screenprint, painting, patchwork, etc., as wall hangings, artworks, and banners.[citation needed]
