Obj. ID: 36538 Amulet, Iran, circa 1890
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.
Apparently a small version of the typical arm amulet, with a nicely engraved inscription in. large hollow letters. There obvious signs of wear attest to the age of the talisman. This style of amulet was generally found in a larger size and in pairs with personalized names. The fact that this contains the 42 letter name of God only, THE "name" in Iran for general protection, it may well have been an individual piece.
Inscription: 42 letter name