This hand carved beechwood amulet and home accent from artisan Armen Ohanyan is called a daghdaghan, a crescent shape decorated with Armenian symbols and ornaments.
In the past, daghdaghans had a wide usage in the everyday life of Armenians, as a protection from the evil eye. It would be hung on entrance doors, in jars, by the bedstead and in any place to be protected. There were also special daghdaghans made for children and cattle.
While making daghdaghans, the craftsman should have only positive emotions and should avoid negative thoughts, as it is believed that the feelings of the craftsman are transmitted to the one for whom it was made.
"Each piece begins with the wood. It is cut and dried, then carved. It requires patience, but it energizes me. It brings peace of mind and freedomāthat's what life is all about."
Armen Ohanyan, a self-taught woodcarver from Sisian, Armenia, was a participant at the 2018 Smithsonian Folklife Festival. His pieces showcase... read more