Islamic Amulet
Datecirca 1850s to 1914
PeriodBritish Occupation of Egypt (1882-1914)
CultureIran, Seljuk Empire
Place MadeEgypt, Africa
Place MadeYemen, Asia
Place MadePalestine, Asia
MediumSilver
DimensionsFramed: 8.2 x 6 x 0.9 cm (3 1/4 x 2 3/8 x 3/8 in.)
Credit LineGift of Drs. John and Bessie Sawhill
Object number76.1.235
On View
Not on viewCollections
ProvenanceLord Horatio Herbert Kitchener (British, 1850-1916), collector (collected by colonial military general during his time in the Middle East and Africa (1874-1898 and 1911-1914); Howard D. Gibbs (American, 1895-1970), collector (collected between the years of 1910-1970); Hans M. F. Schulman Art & Antiquities Gallery (1970 auction- October 6,7,8); Drs. John & Bessie Sawhill, Professors of Classics at Madison College (Bought at Schulman gallery sale in 1970); Madison Art Collection (Gift from John and Bessie Sawhill in 1976).
InscribedIn the name of God (بسم الله, Bismillāh); The Merciful (الرحمن, al-Raḥmān); The Compassionate (الرحيم, al-Raḥīm); O Protector (يا حافظ, Yā ḥāfiẓ); O Most Beautiful (يا جميل, Yā Jamīl); l l l (ل ل ل, ‘lām lām lām’, ie. the letter repeated three times); O Allah (يا الله , Yā Allāh).
Label TextThis is a silver octagonal pendant that is roughly palm-sized. It has Arabic letters crudely engraved on both sides. Each side is divided into three registers containing text. The text is readable in most places, with some areas showing letters that do not seem tied to a word. The amulet has a lined border, with incidents where the craftsperson let the lines go outside the frame. Another distinct feature of the piece is the many dotted lines punched into the surface that fill up the negative space. The dots are scattered almost randomly across the piece – more condensed in some areas and more deeply engraved in others.
Most of the information about our objects comes from original files, which we are currently reviewing. As such, some of the language may reflect past attitudes and practices that are not acceptable. The Madison Art Collection does not condone the use of offensive or harmful language and does not endorse any of the views reflected in outdated documents. We are committed to an approach that is inclusive and respectful, and we wish to correct language that may be harmful or inaccurate. If you have suggestions, please email us at madisonart@jmu.edu.