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Late-Ottoman ‘muskalık’ (amulet-holder). Central Anatolia / Turkey.

Posted by Jean-Marie Criel on February 21, 2016 at 9:48pm

Late-Ottoman silver ‘muskalık’ (amulet-holder). From Central Anatolia, end of 19th century. Silver, glass paste, coral, copper imitation coins. The box is 64mm wide; length of chains: 2 x 29cm. Purchased in Konya (1996). Traditional Muslim faith in Turkey includes the belief in the protective and healing power of amulets, called ‘muska’ or ‘himayıl’. These can be (amongst other forms) specific formulas written down by Islamic scholars on a little piece of paper, sewed into clothing or placed into little boxes (here: triangular) hanging on chains. (Inv.nr. müç004 - Kavak Costume Collection - Antwerpen/Belgium).

Comments

Peter Hoesli February 24, 2016 at 12:16am

Dear Jean-Marie; Beautiful and complete, which is rare with such delicate pieces. A really "nice to have" piece and definitely museums worthy! With kind regards. Peter
Jean-Marie Criel April 21, 2016 at 3:56am

A close-up of the amulet-box, after cleaning the necklace. The operation revealed a pale green background (enamel?) beneath the filigree work.