Throughout the Mediterranean world today, one sees beads and talismans of bright blue, which are meant to avert the evil eye of bad luck. In Egypt, the peasants dip the palm of their hands in blue paint and print them on the sides of their houses. The tradition of blue amulets guarding against harm is a very ancient one. When the Egyptian Empire was at its glorious height, this faience eye of the god Horus was worn by some long-forgotten person to bring good fortune. Much has changed in the world since then, but the power of this talisman remains strong and benevolent as always.