Carranca

A "carranca" is a traditional wooden figure, often carved with a fierce or grotesque expression, that originates from Brazil. These statues are historically associated with riverboats on the São Francisco River, where they were placed on the prow of boats to serve as protective talismans. The belief was that the carranca would scare away evil spirits or bad luck, ensuring a safe journey on the river.

They are typically carved from wood and depict exaggerated human or animal faces with intimidating features like bulging eyes, large mouths, and sharp teeth. Over time, carrancas have also become popular as folk art in Brazil, symbolizing local culture and craftsmanship.