Evil Eye mask

The blue motif on this Evil Eye mask designed by sisters Sonia Aslam and Sehrish Shams of Bebek Jewels is recognized throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean region as an amulet that dispels negative energy and protects against disease, illness and misfortune. Blue amulets are worn as jewellery or hung in homes and vehicles. The ancient notion of the “evil eye” or “eye of envy” (nazar or ‘ayn), believed to arise from the human emotions of jealousy and envy, is also widespread in North Africa and South Asia and well-suited for a COVID mask.

Sonia Aslam and Sehrish Shams for Bebek Jewels, Turkey/USA

2020

Designed in Maryland, USA

Made in Istanbul, Turkey

Printed polyester with cotton lining

Royal Ontario Museum
2021.74.1, Gift in memory of PK Ladhani