Tribal Medallion Fascinator

Description

This lovely hair adornment features a hand-carved and painted leather medallion with a stylized chamsa surrounded by delicate arabesques. The edges of the medallion are embellished with hand-stitching. The term "chamsa" (also known as the hamsa, khamsa, hamesh, and chamesh) is derived from either the Hebrew or Arabic word for "five", indicating the number of fingers on the hand, and it is a sacred symbol in both cultures. Variously described as the Hand of Fatima in Islam, as the Hand of Miriam in Judaism, and more generally as the Hand of God, its presence can be found throughout the Middle East. The chamsa is known for its apotropaic, or evil-averting, properties and is especially renowned for its ability to ward off the evil eye. It has also simply been used as a good luck charm.

Dangling from the medallion are lovely baubles including a genuine Middle Eastern coin, a bone skull, a gnarled piece of red coral, a nugget of lime green turquoise, and glass beads. A peacock feather sweeps out from the side.

This fascinator would make a striking focal point in the up-swept hair of a tribal bellydancer or as part of a more complex headdress. I've taken this piece through four test drives in rehearsal and performance and not only does it look wonderful, it stays put in your hair! I supplement the attached barrette clip with a little spring clip placed perpendicular though the barrette clip once it's in my hair and it didn't budge.

The medallion is backed with brown felt and a silver-toned barrette clip. The front of the carved leather portion is sealed with an acrylic coating to ensure that it stays vibrant for a long time to come, but please keep it dry to ensure its longevity.

measurements • the leather medallion is about 3.25" in diameter, and the dangles are approximately 2" long

Added on Nov 11, 2009