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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

Object Information
  • 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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