Believe it or not…

This is one of humanities oldest superstitious objects. In China, some African countries, South America and many European countries, and throughout history, a rabbit’s foot has been carried as an amulet to bring good luck. The superstition has existed in Europe since at least 600 BC and is still in use today. This one is available off the internet, and comes with a key chain so it can be kept with at all times. You may have seen one as a car mascot, too.

Rabbits are seen as symbols of fertility because they breed prolifically, and are thought to bring good luck, good crops, many children, and prosperity. They are also linked with witchcraft and the devil because they live in burrows under the ground. However, the foot is seen as a charm against evil because the animal’s hind legs touch the ground before the forelegs.

Samuel Pepys had a hare’s foot which he believed to have cured his gout.