About taliaris
An independent guide to talismans from around the world. We explain, we do not sell.
taliaris is an independent English language guide to talismans: the small objects and signs people have carried, worn and hung over doorways for thousands of years, and what they have meant to the cultures that made them.
What we carry, and why
Our claim is the question behind every page. A blue glass eye, a hand with an eye in its palm, a coin on a red thread: each one answers a wish for protection, luck, love or a good beginning. We describe 32 talismans from 7 traditions, sorted by the 9 wishes they answer, and we tell the stories of where they come from.
How we write
We describe beliefs and customs; we do not promise that a talisman will do anything. Our entries rely on museum collections, scholarship on archaeology and folklore, and the voices of the communities to whom these symbols belong. Dates are given as carefully as the evidence allows, with “c.” where they are approximate. Sacred symbols are described with respect, and we point out where a symbol carries religious meaning for believers.
What we do not do
taliaris does not sell talismans or jewellery, does not rank makers and does not take commissions. Nothing on this site is medical, financial or legal advice.
The drawings
Every talisman on taliaris is shown as a line drawing made for this site. The drawings are simplified illustrations of a type, not copies of a particular object in a collection.
Who we are
taliaris is published by NexTao GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany. Responsible for content: Norbert Davidt. Write to the editors at info@pr-geo.com or call or WhatsApp +49 1577 5588 888.