Evil Eye Collection

A Moorish symbol to ward off the evil eye
SYMBOLS: EVIL EYE. A Moorish symbol to ward off the evil eye

Iran, Central Iran, Shiraz, Bazar-e Vakil market, traditional evil eye souvenirs
Central Iran, Shiraz, Bazar-E Vakil Market, Traditional Evil Eye Souvenirs

Touristic Items, Istanbul, Turkey

The Baptism engraved by Gros (coloured engraving)
STC149097 The Baptism engraved by Gros (coloured engraving) by Karnejeff, E. (19th century) (after); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection; Russian, out of copyright

Bronze Etruscan Amulet against the Evil Eye (engraving)
668263 Bronze Etruscan Amulet against the Evil Eye (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Bronze Etruscan Amulet against the Evil Eye)

The Bulla, 1923. Amulet given to babies in Ancient Rome, believed to protect against evil spirits. One of a series of WD & HO Wills Cigarette Cards called Lucky Charms, (Bristol and London, 1923)

The Crescent and Hand, 1923. Islamic symbol of protection. One of a series of WD & HO Wills Cigarette Cards called Lucky Charms, (Bristol and London, 1923)

Gorgon Head
Terracotta copy of a Gorgon head in the Archaeological Museum of Syracuse, Sicily. Gorgon was the name of three sisters, Steno, Euryale and Medusa, monsters in Greek mythology

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The "evil eye, " a powerful symbol with a rich history, has fascinated cultures across the globe for centuries. Originating as a Moorish symbol to ward off malevolent gazes, it has found its way into various regions and taken on diverse forms. In Central Iran's enchanting city of Shiraz, one can explore the bustling Bazar-e Vakil market and stumble upon traditional evil eye souvenirs. These vibrant trinkets serve as protective talismans against ill intentions, showcasing the enduring belief in their mystical powers. Venturing further east to Istanbul, Turkey, tourists are greeted by an array of touristic items adorned with the iconic evil eye motif. From keychains to bracelets and even home decor pieces, these objects not only captivate visitors but also offer them a chance to take home a piece of this ancient tradition. Artists throughout history have been inspired by the concept of the evil eye too. The Baptism engraved by Gros is a mesmerizing colored engraving that depicts this symbolic gesture in all its glory. Similarly, an Etruscan amulet against the Evil Eye showcases intricate engravings on bronze—a testament to how deeply rooted this belief system was in ancient civilizations. Moving forward in time brings us to The Bulla from 1923—a striking representation of protection against harmful influences through its unique design. Another intriguing artifact from that era is The Crescent and Hand—an emblematic combination believed to possess extraordinary powers against negativity. Even explorers like Admiral Sir W Hewett carried tales about encounters with symbols resembling the evil eye during his embassy visit to King John of Abyssinia—an indication that this captivating notion transcends borders and cultures alike. Beyond our earthly realm lies Coma Berenices—a constellation residing approximately 17 million light-years away—where astronomers have discovered celestial formations resembling Gorgon heads; perhaps serving as cosmic reminders of our fascination with averting ill fate since time immemorial.