Phoenix Figurine
Many homes in Omari worship Uxali, a four eyed space phoenix who was the main creator and founder of the islands. Being the most followed deity, almost every household own at least a small figurine to pay tribute to him. Some families make shrines of varying sizes, but most stick to displaying the figurine on a stand or mantle in a well traversed area of the home. These statues are usually no larger than the palm of the hand. More affluent families display sizable statues either in the center of their lawn (if they have one) or as a centerpiece in the foyer of their house. A common pose for the statue is a relaxed phoenix perched on a rock or tree branch. Whether the wings are closed or spread is usually a preference that differs from family to family.
Significance
These figures are a depiction of Uxali, the creator god. Although worshiped highly by the Oizai, he is a common household deity. Displaying even a small statue is said to bring protection to the home and its inhabitants along with longevity and a happy life. It is a common housewarming gift to new couples and families when they buy a home or move. (If they already own a figurine, it is popular to gift chocolate or pastry versions instead.) If one is broken (or worse, destroyed), the head of the household takes time to send an apologetic prayer to Uxali before seeking a replacement as soon as possible, least a streak of misfortune befall upon them. New statues are often charged under the closest full moon; if possible the head also brings it to be blessed at Uxali's main shrine on Crescent Isle. Pieces from the broken statue are cleansed and either repurposed in jewelry or sent to be recycled if possible. Being such a significant deity, it is considered a crime to willingly deface or destroy these figurines, no matter the size. In most cases, punishment is a small fine and a weekend of community service at a shrine or temple. Important historical figures are often buried with one of these figurines or have one displayed in their family crypt or shrine if applicable.
Item type
Religious / Ritualistic
Rarity
This is a common figurine found in any specialty shop that deals with religious items or carved stone.
Raw materials & Components
These figures come in several mineral/crystal types. Borialite is a favorite material to have carved into these small statues. Goldstone is also common, as the shiny flecking against the dark navy surface resembles the starry night sky, just like Uxali's skin (when in a "human form") and feathers. Smaller purple or silver gems are often used to fill the eye sockets. Some statues, that are not made of the luminescent borialite, have built in led lights to illuminate it from the inside. Silver or gold paint is used to ink certain crevices of the statue as accents.
Tools
Standard stone/gem carving tools are used unless a family commissions a figure/statue to be made of a hardier material that might break the usual tools.
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