Amuletic magic square

A 19th century silver amuletic magic square pendant. From ancient times magic squares were engraved on silver and sold as powerful talismans to bring good fortune and protect the wearer from harm. Their protective powers came from their property of symmetric resolution – every row, column and diagonal are balanced. This magic square is based on variations of the number three, symbolising success. The square is encircled by a Latin inscription, a citation from the Book of Common Prayer: Erubescant conturbentur in [saeculum] saeculi et confundantur et pereant, which translates thus : Let them [i.e. my enemies] be confounded and vexed ever more, and let them be put to shame and perish. The pendant measures 1.25 inches by 1.25 inches. Believe in magic.

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