Record

Charms

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used in Forres, Moray

Postcard of Charms.
000-190-004-235-C
© National Museums Scotland

Charms

These heart-shaped charms were used in the second half of the 19th century in Forres in Moray for protecting children against heart ailments, and perhaps more general illnesses.

The charms are made of cast lead. They are perforated for suspension.

These are probably home-made protective or curative amulets associated with the belief in placing different parts of the body under special protection of an amulet. A 'heart' amulet, used with an appropriate prayer or 'words of power', was designed to protect the heart against disease or injury. Heart-shaped brooches are also used as charms.


Record details

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Online ID: 000-190-004-235-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.NO 84
Date: Second half of the 19th century
Material: Lead
Lead
Dimensions: 45 mm x 35 mm
50 mm x 40 mm
What: Charm
Charm
Subject: Jewellery: charms, amulets (NMAS Classification)
Jewellery: charms, amulets (NMAS Classification)
Who:
Where: Scotland, Moray, Forres Parish
Scotland, Moray, Forres Parish
Event:
Description: Lead heart perforated for suspension, used for curing the heart ailments of children in Forres Parish and the surrounding area
Lead heart perforated for suspension, used for curing the heart ailments of children in Forres Parish and the surrounding area
References:
  • Edmonston, Thomas, An Etymological Glossary of the Shetland and Orkney Dialect, Edinburgh: 1866 
  • Thompson, C. J. S., The Hand of Destiny. Everyday Folklore and Superstitions, London: 1932 
Translations:
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