Antique Hand of Fatima – Chichkhan Khamsa – Tunis, Tunisia

Late 19th to early 20th century. Finely engraved silver, decorated with 9‑carat gold applications, diamonds, rubies, and dangling pearls. Weight: 8.9 g; height: 6.7 cm.

Hand-shaped amulet, known as Khamsa or Hamsa, of North African tradition.

Crafted in finely engraved silver and embellished with gold applications, diamonds, and suspended pearls.

The surface is decorated with engraved geometric and symbolic motifs, with gilded elements applied to the palm and fingers. At the base of the fingers, small natural pearls are individually mounted as pendants, adding movement and ornamental value to the piece.

The pendant is fitted with an upper suspension loop.

An example of traditional Tunisian jewelry, serving an apotropaic and symbolic function as well as a decorative one.

Reference literature: Le Bijou Traditionnel de Tunisie, Samira Gargouri‑Sethom.

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