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Talismanic Magic: An Occult History with Melissa Madara
On Thursday October 29th 6-8 pm
Auditorium of the C.G. Jung Center
FREE in person event (registration required)
Across centuries and cultures, magicians have crafted objects believed to hold, attract, preserve, or direct supernatural power. From engraved stones and inscribed metals to rings, amulets, phylacteries, and ritual objects, talismans occupy a fascinating place at the crossroads of magic, religion, art, and material culture. In this lecture, we’ll trace the occult history of the talisman, exploring its many forms and the traditions that gave these objects their power and purpose.
We’ll examine operative theories of magical efficacy, the symbolism and correspondences used in their construction, and the rituals through which talismans were consecrated, empowered, and put into operation. Drawing from sources across the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and early modern worlds, the lecture will illuminate the practical techniques and magical philosophies behind these extraordinary objects. Along the way, we’ll encounter a remarkable gallery of historical examples, preferencing those on view in the museums and institutions of New York City, revealing the ingenuity and diversity of talismanic practice.
Whether you are a student of occult history, a practitioner of magic, or simply fascinated by the ways humans have sought to make the invisible tangible, this lecture offers a journey into the history, theory, and practice of one of magic’s most enduring technologies.
Melissa Madara is an occultist, author, and educator, teaching
Talismanic Magic: An Occult History with Melissa Madara
On Thursday October 29th 6-8 pm
Auditorium of the C.G. Jung Center
FREE in person event (registration required)
Across centuries and cultures, magicians have crafted objects believed to hold, attract, preserve, or direct supernatural power. From engraved stones and inscribed metals to rings, amulets, phylacteries, and ritual objects, talismans occupy a fascinating place at the crossroads of magic, religion, art, and material culture. In this lecture, we’ll trace the occult history of the talisman, exploring its many forms and the traditions that gave these objects their power and purpose.
We’ll examine operative theories of magical efficacy, the symbolism and correspondences used in their construction, and the rituals through which talismans were consecrated, empowered, and put into operation. Drawing from sources across the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and early modern worlds, the lecture will illuminate the practical techniques and magical philosophies behind these extraordinary objects. Along the way, we’ll encounter a remarkable gallery of historical examples, preferencing those on view in the museums and institutions of New York City, revealing the ingenuity and diversity of talismanic practice.
Whether you are a student of occult history, a practitioner of magic, or simply fascinated by the ways humans have sought to make the invisible tangible, this lecture offers a journey into the history, theory, and practice of one of magic’s most enduring technologies.
Melissa Madara is an occultist, author, and educator, teaching