Context: Talismans and Fate
This object is a talisman, or potentially a plaque, cast of either bronze or brass that is engraved with magical drawings and incantations. It was likely produced in Egypt within the general timespan of the 19th century and is therefore excellently preserved. It can be described in two parts: the bottom, larger rectangle with the drawing, as well as the trapezoid-shaped addition at the top of the rectangle that serve simultaneously as an extension for further incantations, and as a base for talisman strings. The bottom rectangular piece is engraved with a drawing of a horned jinn, sitting securely on what appears to be a creature with both a lion’s head (as predictable by the mane), and a snake’s tail. This jinn appears to be holding a spear with both hands, while staring imposingly straight into whoever handles the object. This jinn is attended on its flanks by bearded figures holding censures, with split feet, and pointed hats, while wearing a type of tunic with a belt around the waist or groin. Below the jinn and its attendants, there are three more similar attendants standing each under a simple arcade. This rectangle is bordered with a neatly inscribed incantation that appears to be in an unidentifiable combination of symbols and characters. The engraved images and the incantations are separated with a border consisting of two parallel lines, running across each edge of the rectangle. These inscriptions and parallel-lined borders extend onto the trapezoid-shaped piece at the top. This piece has a hole in the center for a string or rope to be looped through. This object is relevant and important to the ayniyyah primarily because Abu Dhu’ayb makes direct reference amulets as being unable to avail his sons once plague overtook them: “And once death sinks in its talons, Every amulet, you’ll find, will be of no avail.” This talisman provides insight into the kind of amulets Abu Dhu’ayb may have been introduced to upon the conquest of Egypt. Although talismans had been formally forbidden by the Prophet Muhammad, the use of them appear to have persisted throughout Islamic history – especially in Egypt, which is where this Talisman was produced and discovered. Furthermore, this object contributes to a greater understanding of the dualistic nature of understanding forces of good and forces of evil that existed in pre-Islamic Arabia. It was believed that forces of good and forces of evil were somewhat of two sides of the same coin: each was equally powerful, available to be called upon for help, and neither could necessarily prevail decisively over the other. This is contrasted to the Islamic understanding–which Abu Dhu’ayb adhered to–that all good and evil was a creation of God, and everything is therefore subordinate to God while God has no partners in worship nor in invocation. Despite strongly orthodox Islamic understanding prevailing at the time of Abu Dhu’ayb, he still made mention of amulets–this supports the continuity of some aspects pre-Islamic Arabian culture during Early Islamic periods.