Amulets and talismans from the Triconch Palace in Buthrotum , Butrint, Albania Amulets and protective imagery are characteristic features of the late Roman world, intended to assure safety, health and success in a period of increasing social insecurity and urban decline. Within in the Triconch Palace various images were designed to protect the house and its occupants. In the mosaic pavement, immediately in front of the main doorway, was a large eye surrounded by a variety of motifs, including crosses. This Evil Eye motif was designed to protect against the effects of envy or malicious spirits, and an element of superstition is here combined with Christian symbols to protect the main entrance into the house. Apotropaic designs were also incorporated into the four main windows of the dining hall: crosses, Chi-Rho monograms and six-pointed stars. Other than the Christian protective symbols, the pointed star was a common sign on magic gemstones. These window grilles would have protected the hall and the guests from evil spirits and demons that might slip in on a breath of wind or a shaft of light. A number of amulets similarly reveal something of the everyday practices and beliefs of this period.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 01:48:31 +0000
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