Amulet (Nazarlıq)

This shield is based on the ornaments of a rare 16th-century Crimean Tatar or Ottoman helmet, but also has elements of the 17-18th centuries. The helmet was once decorated with engraved triangles arranged in a circle and framed by S-shaped elements, with a flower in the centre. From its petals, pomegrenade-shaped markings are directed to the three corners. This composition reveals traditional Crimean Tatar symbolism: symbols of fertility, water and earth. This combination of ornaments is typical of the decoration of amulets and talismans of the time. The helmet is decorated with engravings, zoomorphic animal horn and plant ornaments, and drop-shaped elements often found on the helmets of Crimean warriors. Inscriptions in Arabic indicate the owner of the helmet, and the Koran is quoted in places. 

A triangular composition was chosen for the decoration of the ceramic shield. The arrangement of the elements is similar to the original, with the aim of retaining the symbolic content. The drop-shaped element has an eight-petalled flower in the centre. The shield is monochrome with a brown background. This was to emphasise the symbolism of the surviving medieval ornament.