Spanish Child’s Protective Amulet Belt.

Silk belt with silver clasp 58 x 6.5 cm.
Longest charm from belt 23.5 cm.
Elements dating 17th to early 20th c. comprised of silver, coral, glass, badger’s paw, wild boar’s tusk, jet higa and tropical chestnut.

In Spain, protection from various “evils” was crucial and began at birth for all classes of people. The most common and harmful supernatural belief dates back over 5000 years focusing upon the evil eye or mal de ojo. This superstition claims that being gazed upon(or eyeing) by someone with envy or evil intent, could bring about any number of maladies, easily infecting the purity and weakness of an individual, especially children, possibly leading to death. Combining early Pagan and religious beliefs, portable apotropaic devices and symbols like protective amulets and votives were a vital part of daily life.
One can see this necessity on full display in the Spanish Hapsburg court paintings of the 16th and 17th centuries. These well-tempered portraits were
commissioned by Spanish royalty and noble families, specifically designed as an exhibition of wealth, knowledge, physical control and manners, as well as reflecting the piety of the inner soul. Regal infants and children are presented wearing silk belts and chains replete with protective charms and #talismans over their finest courtly dress. Not only did these elements focus on Catholic ritual and devotional objects, but many pieces were crafted by jewelers combining natural elements such as red coral, jet(azabache), wild boar’s tusks, badger’s paws, and the Castaña de Indias(New World horse chestnut).
Pieces like this were family heirlooms, altered, repurposed and reworked, making necessary adjustments and additions for each generation.

For more details and references see Instagram stories: AMULETS +

Inquire >