An ornate antique silver hirz from either Yemen, Oman or Ethiopia, where similar ornate box amulets were traditionally worn by women. They were used as an amulet to offer protection from harm. Such amulets are usually made of white metal. However, this amulet tests as having approximately 40-50% silver purity.

The highly decorative hirz box is rectangular in shape and would have previously opened on one side to allow prayers and sacred texts to be inserted. The belief was that these texts contained within the hirz would provide protection to the wearer at all times.

The handcrafted design on the front of the box uses filigree and granulation to give it beautiful texture. At the centre is a glass cabochon, etched with the Islamic crescent moon and star cultural symbol. Bell-shaped dangles hang from the hirz, traditionally believed to ward off evil through the jangling sound of the bells.

A beautiful authentic piece, very collectible. Wear commensurate with age.

Book reference:

cf. Ransom, M. (2014). Silver Treasures from the Land of Sheba: Regional Yemeni Jewelry. AUC Press, p. 223