Ensouling the Effigy

The Witch’s Arte of Enspirited Objects

By Matthew Venus

Unlock the mysteries of poppet magic and fetish crafting with Ensouling the Effigy, a compelling guide that offers readers an in-depth exploration into the realm of spirit conjuration, spirit vessels, and otherworldly communication. This book is not just a manual; it's an invitation to journey into the heart of animism, where the witch and spirits are inseparable. Within these pages, you'll discover techniques for creating poppets, effigies, and spirit houses that serve as vessels for spiritual entities and magical power. Learn to craft your own ritual oils, incenses, washes, and smokes with a comprehensive formulary that provides the key ingredients and instructions to infuse your practices with authenticity and botanical magic. Written for practitioners of the Arte, this book's unique blend of traditional practices will captivate anyone interested in witchcraft, magic, or spirit work. Whether you're looking to expand your magical toolkit or deepen your spiritual connections, Ensouling the Effigy offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for your journey.

Matthew Venus is an artist, folk magician, and witch in Salem, Massachusetts. His craft centers on animism and ancestral, land-based traditions. His practice is enriched as Tata Ndenge in a lineage of Kimbanda Angola and his experiences as an Aborisha in the Lucumí Orisha tradition. For over two decades, Matthew has shared his teachings worldwide through courses on witchcraft and folk magical traditions.
 
Matthew owns the apothecary of Spiritus Arcanum (@spiritus_arcanum), a shop that specializes in handcrafted incense, oils, and talismanic art. He cofounded the Salem Witchcraft and Folklore Festival (@SalemWitchFest), which hosts events around magical education, community building, and activism.

Adrienne Rozzi is an artist, illustrator, printmaker, and magical practitioner dedicated to honoring the multi-faceted archetype of the Witch.