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Protective hamsa amulet from a Moroccan Jewish tradition, finely engraved with dense vegetal and geometric ornament. At the upper center is a hexagram (Magen David / Seal of Solomon), while the body of the amulet is inscribed with the Hebrew letters ש־ה.
In Jewish amuletic practice, short letter groupings like ש־ה function as protective divine-letter formulas rather than standard words. Such abbreviated or veiled letter forms were commonly used on amulets to invoke divine protection without writing a full sacred name.
The surface shows detailed hand engraving and textured backgrounds, characteristic of North African Jewish folk metalwork. The openwork lower section and balanced symmetry suggest this piece was intended to be worn on the body or hung in the home as an everyday protective talisman.
Details
Origin: Morocco, Jewish tradition
Date: 20th century
Material: Mixed metal (silver-tone base with brass elements)
Technique: Hand engraving with textured relief
Motifs: Hamsa, hexagram, protective letter formula ש־ה
Condition: Good vintage condition with surface wear consistent with age and use
Size: 6.5 inches tall × 4.5 inches wide
Protective hamsa amulet from a Moroccan Jewish tradition, finely engraved with dense vegetal and geometric ornament. At the upper center is a hexagram (Magen David / Seal of Solomon), while the body of the amulet is inscribed with the Hebrew letters ש־ה.
In Jewish amuletic practice, short letter groupings like ש־ה function as protective divine-letter formulas rather than standard words. Such abbreviated or veiled letter forms were commonly used on amulets to invoke divine protection without writing a full sacred name.
The surface shows detailed hand engraving and textured backgrounds, characteristic of North African Jewish folk metalwork. The openwork lower section and balanced symmetry suggest this piece was intended to be worn on the body or hung in the home as an everyday protective talisman.
Details
Origin: Morocco, Jewish tradition
Date: 20th century
Material: Mixed metal (silver-tone base with brass elements)
Technique: Hand engraving with textured relief
Motifs: Hamsa, hexagram, protective letter formula ש־ה
Condition: Good vintage condition with surface wear consistent with age and use
Size: 6.5 inches tall × 4.5 inches wide