Amulets

thumb|right|alt=boar tusks and metal trinkets fastened with twine to a cluster of wooden dowels|Each sampy was fashioned from diverse components. A sampy is an amulet or idol of spiritual and political importance among numerous ethnic groups in Madagascar. Amulets and idols fashioned from assorted natural materials have occupied an important place among many Malagasy communities for centuries. Sampy can be classified into two categories. Those that are meant to bless and protect an entire community by serving as a deity figure, and individual amulets that people wear on their person as protect

ancient cylinder seal

Blessed item