An Exceptional ‘Charivari’ a Talismanic ‘Hunters’ Charm

An Exceptional ‘Charivari’ a Talismanic ‘Hunters’ Charm
Composed of:
Rock Crystal, Stag Horn, Deer Teeth, Bear Claw, Silver Amulets, Bezoar, Dog and Deer Teeth, Silver Chain
19th Century

SIZE: 37.5cm wide - 14¾ ins wide

PROVENANCE:
Ex Private English collection

cf: For further ‘Charivari’ examples see: Finch and Co no. 95, catalogue 17, 2011, no. 48, catalogue no. 32, 2019 and no. 82, catalogue no. 34, 2020

The word amulet comes from the Latin ‘amuletum’ which is thought to be derived from the Arabic noun ‘Hamatet’. They are believed to provide protection and lend special magical powers to their wearer. The talismanic amulets worn by hunters in Bavaria on the belt of their ‘lederhosen’ are known as 'charivari' and are thought to have the ability to appease and calm all intended prey as well as providing protection. These powers were ascribed to the particular natural materials they are made from.
Highly prized in Germany, they acted as both status symbol and talisman to farmers and traditional sportsmen and were handed down through the generations.