Apotropaic magic

A apotropaion ( Greek " ( evil ) turning away " ) is a measure of protection against evil forces.

The apotropaion was applied in ancient times to protect people, animals, buildings, etc., and to ward off the evil effects of sorcery, the " evil eye " and other irregular forces. It could for example take the form of an animal or human head, in the form of a Gorgoneions on the aegis of Athena. As apotropaion are also popular with the Romans, FASCINUM to see mentioned phallus sculptures, which were often combined with other apotropaic objects to bell games ( Tintinnabula ).

Also known are the eyes of idols, rare cars apotropaic animal such as lion paws feet. In later times Apotropaia were often maintained in a decorative function as envy head or gable cross.

To date, the Middle East and North Africa Nazar amulet and the Hand of Fatima used to ward against the evil eye.

Gorgoneion on a keystone of an archway

Shop in Boston with Nazar amulets