AN INSCRIBED JADE PENDANT (HALDILI) Possibly Iran or Deccan, Central India, 18th century Shaped as a lobed cartouche, with a central calligraphic band inscribed with a saying of Imam 'Ali in tawqi'script, the border with two rosette medallions and scrolling floral spray, 4cm x 9.5cm. Inscription: Oppression of [God's] subjects is the worst companion for the hereafter. Jade pendants such as this one were worn as talismans (haldili) and are generally attributed to India or Iran in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Shi'a nature of the inscription on our haldili suggests an either Iranian or Deccani production. For two similar jade plaques in the form of a lobed cartouche decorated with Shi'a inscriptions, please see Bonhams London, 8 October 2009, lot 164 and 18 October 2016, lot 245.