When I lived in Fortaleza in northeastern Brasil back in 2008, I wanted to pick up something from one of the Candomble (Afro Brazilian religion) stores. The small shop had rows upon rows of saints and spirit statues along with objects and clothes used in the Candomble ceremonies. I ended up picking up this statue of Preto Velho (or Old Black Man) who represents the spirit of an old slave and who has a kind, wise and compassionate demeanor.

He reminded me of a caring grandfatherly figure who would watch over me, so I ended up picking him out of all the other statues of saints and spirits.