Obj. ID: 37561
Sacred and Ritual Objects Amulet, Ukraine, circa 1900
The following description was prepared by William Gross:
This is an example of a type of inexpensive, easily cast lead amulet that has only recently come to light. The discovery came because of the extensive use of metal detectors by amateur explorers in the FSU, primarily in the Ukraine, where such amulets have been uncovered in both quantity and variety. In the Gross Family Collection, there are more than 60 different variations. It is clear that they were a very popular protective talisman, worn by numerous Jewish children.
A shield-shaped cast lead "heh" amulet, not normally found. There are a few amulets of this general shape in the Gross Family collection in varied states of sharpness and readability. This example has on the front the letter "Heh" held by two rampant lions and a branch with leaves inside the "Heh".with greenery around it. Underneath the "Heh" are three Hebrew letters" "Shin" "Kuf" "'Shin". On the rear is a Hebrew inscription.
Inscription: "Heh"