Basa-Andre is a beautiful but dreaded spirit of the Pyrenees Mountains, called the “land mermaid” or “mountain mermaid,” sharing many mermaid characteristics but lacking the fishtail. Basa-Andre sits at the threshold of remote mountain caves (and perhaps there’s pools of water in those caves) or atop large stones, combing her long hair with a gold comb. She is not particularly sociable and does not want to be bothered.

Basa-Andre has a reputation of luring people to their doom, but she is not an aggressive spirit. She doesn’t pursue victims. Tragedy tends to befall men who presume that she is a lone, defenseless, and beautiful woman and who pursue her perhaps with not such innocent intent. She leads them to dangerous precipices and unstable ground where only a spirit walks safely. Basa-Andre is a great sorceress privy to the secrets of the mountains. If addressed very politely and cautiously, she may be persuaded to reveal information.

ORIGIN:

Basque

Consort:

Basa-Jaun

OFFERINGS:

Ornaments for her hair, cosmetics, perfume, beautiful shiny smooth stones

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.