Hamsa amulet c. 1920

gold

natural stone pattern

3d sculpting

wedding photograph

egg art

rounded shape

sculpture

gold

jewelry design

sculptural image

3d shape

stoneware

This Hamsa amulet, created around 1920, is a beautiful example of traditional Jewish jewelry. The amulet is made of silver and gold, and features a delicate, openwork design in the shape of a hand, a symbol of protection in Jewish culture. The hand is adorned with diamonds, pearls, and a golden bird, representing peace and hope. This small, intricate piece, now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a testament to the artistry and symbolism that have long been embedded in Jewish traditions.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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The Hamsa (five) hand is a common motif in Jewish iconography but is not necessarily Jewish in origin. In fact, the open hand, often with an embedded eye, as a protective talisman against the "Evil Eye" dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. This example includes a bird with a gemstone eye. In Arab cultures the symbol is known as the "Hand of Fatima," a reference to the Prophet Muhammad's daughter. The Hamsa symbol has spread in popularity as a good luck symbol for many cultures.