Double-sided Polygonal Talisman

Location: Iran

Materials: nephrite jade, finely wheel and point cut; set with a small turquoise

Dimensions: 4.7 x 4.8cm

Accession Number: TLS 51

Other Notes:

The prayer (hirz) for the protection of children inscribed on one side of the talisman was reportedly given to Amanah when the Prophet Muhammad was born. It is followed by two lines of magic letters and numbers. In the centre of the other side is part of verse 13 of the surah al-Ra‘d (XIII) and in the borders is the Ayat al-Kursi (surah al-Baqarah, II, verse 255).

Script:

inscribed in thulth script