Coptic shops Christian Talismans

These antique Coptic Christian amulet/talisman are from the Oromo people of Ethiopia and were traditionally worn to protect from evil spirits and shops bring the wearer good luck. They contain scrolls, usually made of vellum, which were inscribed with prayers or stories from Coptic Christian bibles or manuscripts by priests, religious scribes, or unordained clerics known as 'dabtaras', and then sewn inside their leather pouch. The writing on the scroll is done with special black and red ink and is in Ge'ez, a now unspoken language used for religious purposes. They are sometimes referred to as "kitab", which is the Arabic word for book and which is also used to describe amulets containing Islamic scrolls.

Like our Coptic crosses, these talismans were made over a long length of time and therefore are hard to individually age. Some were made as early as the late 19th century. However, these talismans have been made, worn and worshiped for over 1,600 years.

The talisman measures 82mm wide, 29mm tall, 18mm thick. It is temporarily strung on a length of strong waxed cotton finished with an adjustable knot for instant adornment.

You will receive the exact talisman you see pictured here.

These talismans are indeed antique pieces and their condition reflects that. Worn edges and weathering are a product of time and use...not defects.