Witch’s Bottle
Author: Nfknowledge
Along with these horse brasses, we also find a ‘witches bottle’. or charm bottle which in this case was created for the protection of family. Within the jar is New Forest soil which connects the witch to their ancestral heritage, the bones of a fox for cunning, hag stones for favour of the fairies, and used iron horse nails which offer protection and steadfastness. The bottle was sealed with wax which was impregnated with thorns, for further protection of the family. The charm would have been placed above a doorway or buried under the hearth or doorstep.
– Vikki Bramshaw, author of the book ‘New Forest Folklore, Traditions & Charms’