The pilón is Changó's throne, and this one stands about 21 inches tall on a 10 by 10 inch base. It's carved from wood and made to hold his batea up high, where a king belongs.
What is a pilón de Changó?
A pilón is a carved wooden pedestal shaped like a mortar. In Lucumí practice Changó's fundamento lives in a wooden batea, and the batea rests on top of the pilón. Together they form his seat on the altar.
Who is Changó?
Changó (Shango) is the Orisha of thunder, lightning, fire, drumming, dance and justice. Tradition remembers him as a king of Oyo who was deified after his death, and he's still honored as a king today. His colors are red and white, his tool is the double headed axe called the oshe, and in Cuban tradition he's syncretized with Santa Bárbara, whose feast is December 4.
Who is this pilón for?
- People receiving Changó: the base for his batea from day one.
- Replacing an old pilón: a fresh, solid piece for his throne.
- Tronos and tambores: it raises Changó for celebrations and feast days.
Why buy it from El Viejo Lázaro?
We've supplied carved pieces for Changó to Miami's Lucumí community since 2003. Pair this pilón with our Changó batea, or choose a ready matched pilón and batea set.
Frequently asked questions
How big is this pilón?
About 10 by 10 inches at the base and 21 inches tall.
Does it come with a batea?
No, this is the pilón only. Our sets include both pieces.
Why does Changó sit on a pilón?
The pilón works as his throne, lifting his batea above the floor.
Which saint is Changó?
In Cuban tradition he's syncretized with Santa Bárbara.
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