Description

An old Tuareg ‘hand of Fatima’ talisman or ‘khomessa’ from Mali. 
The power of this talisman derives from the word ‘Khomessa’, related to the Arabic ‘hamsa’ or ‘khamsa’ amulet representing the number ‘five’. Symbolizing the ‘hand of Fatima’ it is a powerful protective amulet against the ‘evil eye’. 
Hand-cut pieces of conus shell are set onto a leather backing with natural resin acting as glue forming a lozenge pattern. These talismans are worn by both Tuareg and Bella people. 
This tribally worn ‘khomissar’ with a rich usage patina is from the mid to late 20th century.
 
Width: 9 cm (3 1/2″)
Height: 7,5 cm (3″)
Thickness: 1,7 cm (5/8″)