Old koranic boxe

Old koranic boxeThis slender but substantial hinged silver box was crafted in the central Anti Atlas region of Morocco early in the last century. Intricately engraved with zigzag and scroll patterns framing a Hamsa on one side and a Star of David Seal of Solomon on the other, this lovely little box was intended to carry either a miniature Koran or Torah. It would have been used as a protective amulet, and its markings and rich patina indicate it was worn lovingly for

i have personally seen a very similar carnelian ring exhibited at the Luxor museum in South Egypt and labelled as Pharaonic

please scroll down to each picture to learn more about this iconic jewel and its use

Inscriptions on the amulet face indicate that it originated in Essaouira in the Hijiri year 1326

sizrs : 7CM / 3CM

are an intriguing aspect of the rich cultural heritage of the Tuareg people

once very popular in North Africa

the Tuareg crosses have served as protective amulets

is a predecessor of the modern charm bracelet originating in 17th century Bahia province

The sort of piece that is becoming increasingly hard to find in North Africa

smaller pendant triangles— these pieces evince the Saharan concern with fertility

with different designs representing various regions or clans

A rare and meaningful artefact