Marabout Amulet with Sacred Qu’ranic Script Timbuktu, Mali

Description

Timbuktu, Mali was an important crossroad for sub-Saharan trade of salt, gold and spices, ivory and slaves. Also a renowned center of Islamic teaching in the 14th century, numerous Koranic schools flourished there, as did four important universities.
Timbuktu became an amalgam of cultures, it was settled by the Arabs, the Tuareg as well as the Songhay, and to this day retains a rich blend of cultural backgrounds.
This extremely rare Tuareg marabout (religious leader) sacred pouch originated from the region of Timbuktu. 
Entirely handmade of brass, nickel and copper, the backside of the pouch is covered with leather and the hinge flap acts as a cover.
The striking large central cartouche covering the flat is filled a with a complex talismanic script contained within a magic grid of 30 compartments. 
Cursive script disposed in three lines highlights the top of the grid; additional cursive script is found on the container, under the flap as well.
The combination of characters undoubtedly forms a powerful sacred magical formula exclusively known to the marabout. It is likely that this pouch was intended to contain sacred writings and formulas and was in the exclusive possession of the marabout or chosen spiritual leader. 
The braided leather neck strand has a button-like leather closure and is lavishly adorned with cowrie shells as is the surround of the container.
Superb patina of age and usage, 20th century – Collected in Mali.

Weight: 560 grams (1 lb 4 oz)
Length of neck strand: 60 cm (24″)
Dimensions of pouch container: 15,3 cm x 7,2 cm x 3,2 cm (6″ x 6 3/4″ x 1 1/4″)