Talismanic Chart, Iran, 19th century Ink on gazelle skin, AKM536

akm536_01.jpg

Dublin Core

Title

Talismanic Chart, Iran, 19th century Ink on gazelle skin, AKM536

Description

Whether hung on a wall or carried on the body, talismans covered with ornate inscriptions were believed to provide protection and secure blessings (Arabic, barakat). The gazelle skin shown here is inked with magic squares and inscriptions, promising protection from disease, plague, the devil, and the evil eye. Its subtle crease marks suggest that this chart was folded into a smaller bundle, perhaps nestled within a now-lost container.

Publisher

Aga Khan Museum

Date

19th century

Contributor

Aga Khan Museum

Rights

Aga Khan Museum

Format

Dimensions: 68.5 x 53.5 cm

Materials: Ink on gazelle skin

Language

Arabic

Identifier

AKM 536

Coverage

Iran, Shiraz

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