Two amulets for protection of the home. Qamishli, Syrian Kurdistan, [early 20th century].
Ink on paper; cardboard and glass frames.
Content of both amulets mostly the same, with minor differences. On both, the hand ("hamsa") symbol appears at center; pair of Stars of David; pair of leafy-branched images (see also item no. 140), encircled by initials of verses, kabbalistic letter combinations, names of angels, and other holy names. The smaller amulet also has an acronym of "Ana Bekoach" in left margin. Other minor differences also exist.
1. 12.5X9.5 cm. Good condition. 2. 10.5X8.5 cm. Fair condition. Stains. Glass on one amulet broken; amulet wrapped in nylon and adhesive tape.
Reference: Jews of Kurdistan: Lifestyle, Tradition, and Art, p. 185.