AN ISLAMIC INSCRIBED BRONZE TALISMANIC NAIL
Of elongated tapering form, the bronze nail extensively engraved to its four faces with Arabic calligraphic inscriptions and talismanic motifs, including panels of magic squares, numerals and geometric devices. The squared upper end pierced with a circular hole, the opposite end tapering to a point.
The combination of Qur'anic or devotional-style inscriptions and numerical talismanic devices suggests a protective or apotropaic function.
Of elongated tapering form, the bronze nail extensively engraved to its four faces with Arabic calligraphic inscriptions and talismanic motifs, including panels of magic squares, numerals and geometric devices. The squared upper end pierced with a circular hole, the opposite end tapering to a point.
The combination of Qur'anic or devotional-style inscriptions and numerical talismanic devices suggests a protective or apotropaic function.
