A NISHAPUR IVORY PIECE, PERSIA, 9TH-12TH CENTURY

Reference: ART4001487

The dot-in-circle motif recalls designs presumed to be of magical significance, most likely an abstract eye to ward off the evil-eye, which serve an apotropaic function. Easily reproduced with a tool and visible in many cultures and times, this symbol may have lost its meaning, and became simply a decorative pattern.
5 cm. height
3.5 cm. diam.