Guest blog post by
Nickie Shobeiry
Take a stroll through a Turkish bazaar, and you’re sure to see Evil Eye - or ‘Nazar’ - amulets. Created to protect its wearer from ill will caused by jealousy, these deep-blue talismans are hung everywhere from doorways to car mirrors, and can even be found on trees. They are also worn close to the body as necklaces and bracelets.
Using glass to create these colourful amulets is a practise dating back thousands of years. It is a tradition passed down through families; artisans often make the eyes with azure and royal blue glass. Of course, this is not the only medium that the Nazar is found in - eye motifs are also woven into kilim rugs (tapestry-like rugs used as decoration or prayer mats).
References to the Evil Eye can be found in the Old Testament. Though most commonly found in Turkey, many cultures herald eyes, holding them symbolically important. Some well-known examples include the ancient Egyptian Eye of Horus, the Eyes of the Buddha, and the Hamsa Hand, with an eye in its palm. Textiles have reflected this eye motif for a long time. Today, more and more of such prints can be found in mainstream fashion.
Last year’s
Kenzo collection brought the ‘all-seeing eye’ to the catwalk, using bold colours and realistic shading. Similarly, Hamsa Hands can be seen printed on everything from tapestries to dresses. This integration of symbols brings ancient spiritual traditions to modern textiles, allowing the wearer to carry a little piece of cultural history with them.
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