Visual Representations of Christian Talisman Arts in North and Central Ethiopia

Abstract

Talisman art esoteric practices evolved from indigenous knowledge, religious values, and cultural perspectives. Most talisman art practices in the world have disappeared or evolved into other artforms. But Ethiopian talisman arts are a living experience, and are still developing in highland areas. On the other hand, Western scholars claim and that Ethiopian talisman arts directly adopted from Coptic and Arab talisman arts. The study investigates this vis-à-vis the development of indigenous practices of Ethiopian talisman art images, visual representations, material culture, and artistic compositions. Nineteen Ethiopian Däbtäräs/scroll makers and practitioners are selected based on purposive sampling method from potential areas in north and central Ethiopia. The study employs a qualitative research method based on in-depth interviews with experts, manuscript analyses from museums, and field observations with practitioners to determine the development and basic characteristics of talisman art practices in Ethiopia.