Oriental Rugs Dictionary
Hand of Fatima
The Hand of Fatima, also known as the Hamsa, is a symbolic motif found in tribal and Middle Eastern textiles, including rugs. The design represents an open hand and is believed to provide protection against evil and bring good fortune. It is widely used in Islamic art and is often incorporated into decorative patterns. In carpets, the motif may appear in stylized form as part of geometric or symbolic compositions. Fatima was the youngest daughter of the prophet Mohammad and a founding member of the breakaway Shiite sector of Islam. Some prayer rugs depict two palms on the upper two corners, on the sides of the spandrels. The palms suggest five principles of Islam (the Five Pillars): Profession of faith, prayer, pilgrimage, fasting and almsgiving. In many Middle Eastern cultures open palm with five figures is used against the
