Turkey
19th century
compacted ‘dust’, wrapped in raffia; silver-mounted glass case with velvet trim
4.5cm (height, each); 20 x 20 x 20cm (case)
This relic contains dust swept from the floor of the Ka‘bah and compacted into two pear-shaped elements which are wrapped in coloured raffia. They would have been used as amulets in a religious building or home in the belief that they would convey blessings upon their owner and surroundings.