Russian gestures-2

Fig sign (aka [dulja, kukish, shish, figa]) - is not only insulting gesture to the dispute. Slavs used this symbol as for protection of the evil eye and spoilage. According to popular belief it was possible to neutralize the sorcerer or witch, if a man showed them a Fig sign. Fig sign  defend from the other evil forces.
Fig sign is also  the magic remedy for many ills, such as "barley" in the eye (patient carry to a fig sign to the eye and recited the spell). Thus, the  fig sign- action that has  a protective value in a Slavic folk traditions. 

Russian troika

Russian troika (as a mean of transportation Ded Moroz) on New Year retro postcards

Russian gestures

I wonder why Americans show middle finger, while the Russians show arm up to the elbow (obscene gesture Bras d'honneur)? Russia - a generous soul!