Gold-printed lithograph protection talisman, with special appeals for healing
[Ottoman protection talisman].
Gold printed lithograph, 510 x 160 mm. 1 p. Gold Arabic naskh script in two columns.
€ 1,800.00
An intriguing Ottoman talisman executed unusually in gold ink lithography. As customary, there are two columns of various prayers and spells, references to the Qur'an, the names of God, the Prophet, other prophets, and other magical terms and magical squares.
The talisman itself was created to be carried (or worn), either folded or in a protective case, referred to by the Ottomans as a muska. The vertical texts on the borders of the two columns are verses taken from the Qur'an and are requests for healing. The two middle columns are requests for aid by God through the Qur'an, the Prophet Muhammed, and the other prophets.
Such objects have been popular as a personal protection against evil spirits in the Middle East for centuries until today. Nonetheless, examples printed in gold lithography are very uncommon.
With small stains, repairs along folds on verso, and a few very minor chips and closed tears; in good condition.