A TALISMANIC CHART, QAJAR, IRAN, 19TH CENTURY

Arabic manuscript on textile cloth, written in red and black ink with thuluth and naskh script. The main body of the chart with a central large table contains numerous magic squares, surrounded by a border enclosing two verse of Quran 3 surah Al-Imraan v.26-v.27 and Quran 2 surah Al-Baqarah v.255 Ayat Al-Kursi. The outer border containing roundels enclsoing numerous magic squares and Arabic inscriptions. Further stylized with innovications to Allah, praises of the prophet and other talismanic inscriptions. Whether hung on a wall or carried on the body, talismans such as this large-scale chart covered with various designs and inscriptions were believed to help secure blessings (baraka) and provide protection for individuals and places. 70 by 67 cm.