am-u-let: n. (am-yuh-lit)
a small object worn to ward off evil, harm, or illness or to bring good fortune; protecting charm.
Amulets are objects that for one reason or another we have imbued with mystical qualities to bring good things into our lives or ward-off unwanted things.
In this project, my mission is to gather and compile stories of sacred objects (not necessarily limited to amulets specifically), either personal stories or cultural information from around the world. For the scope of this project, I am limiting the search to information dealing with objects that can be held or reasonable transported from place to place.
These small objects have a special tactile power, they touch the skin and have intimate qualities... a physical reminder of intangible idea. In western culture, the wedding ring is the most simple and accessible example. It really is nothing more than a circle of precious metal, however, (we all hope) it is a symbol of love, fidelity, and trust. And this symbolism gives it value beyond that of monetary calculation. It is a sacred object, an amulet worn to outwardly show an inward belief: the hope of love everlasting.
So, the questions that I hope to answer are these:
1. These objects, what ever they may be, either by practice or design how did they become sacred?
2. Where in the world are these objects? If they were "transported" to different cultures, would they retain their mysticism?
3. There are objects that impact many people, and there are some objects that are so personal that they one impact one person. I'd like to explore that dichotomy and the grey areas in between.
And those are my goals, as I see them. Let's get started.
