Obj. ID: 36540 Amulet, Iraq, circa 1900
sub-set tree:
The following description was prepared by William Gross:
From earliest times, man has tried to protect himself from misfortune by the use of objects which he considered holy or otherwise (e.g., magically) potent. Amulets and talismans are items generally worn around the neck or wrist, carried in a pocket or purse or hung on a wall. They are meant to protect or aid those who carried or wore them. The Hebrew word for amulet, kame‘a, has the root meaning "to bind". Jewish amulets are usually comprised of texts (either letters or graphic symbols) that are inscribed on some sort of material; some may also contain plant matter or precious stones. The texts of amulets usually include holy names that are believed to have the ability to affect reality, along with incantations summoning angels or other magical powers. For the most part, an amulet has a specific purpose: to ease childbirth, facilitate recovery from illness, improve one’s livelihood, and so on, but in the modern world many are also made for general protection.
While this amulet is from the above group in general, it is typical of a subcategory which are made from thinner metal and have simpler inscriptions. This example carries only the general protection 42 letter name and words that this was effective for anyone carrying it, having no specific name.The hanging rings are totally worn through, showing substantial use and probably age as well.
Inscription: Be-Shem (42 letter name)......