Agate Amulet

mid-18th century

Not on view

In Iran agate has been regarded as a stone with magical and healing properties. This notched oval-shaped pendant features a selection from the Asma’ al-Husna (the 99 beautiful names of God) at the center, surrounded by the entire sura Ya Sin (sura 36) from the Qur’an. Considered the heart of the Qur’an, this sura has talismanic associations including shielding its owner/wearer from calamity and providing them with strength and courage.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Agate Amulet
Date: mid-18th century
Geography: Country of Origin Iran
Medium: Agate; inscribed with black inlay
Dimensions: H. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
W. 4 in. (10.2 cm)
Classification: Stone
Credit Line: Purchase, Elizabeth S. Ettinghausen Gift, in memory of Richard Ettinghausen, Louise E. and Theresa S. Seley Purchase Fund for Islamic Art and Persian Heritage Foundation Gift, 2013
Object Number: 2013.170
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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