GRIMOIRES - TALISMANS Talismans are magical figures designed to achieve certain effects by spiritual means - usually by evoking the power of a particular angel or demon. Like the majority of talismans, the eight recorded here are ultimately derived from the grimoire tradition. From top, reading left to right. A talisman from the Enchiridion of Pope Leo III, designed to ensure control over genii, towards the achievement of any work, or to impede the work of others. A talisman from the Enchiridion of Pope Leo III, designed to give discernment of the good and evil intentions of others. It should be painted in gold on black satin, and worn over the heart. The obverse of a talisman designed to gain the approbation and homage of all spirits. From Reginald Scot, The Discoverie of Witchcraft, 1584. The reverse of a talisman designed to gain the approbation and homage of all spirits. From Reginald Scot, The Discoverie of Witchcraft, 1584. A talisman based on the permutation of the four-letter name of God, in Hebrew. A talisman from the Enchiridion of Pope Leo III, with the Latin phrase, In Hoc Vince (In this [sign - that is the name of Christ] you will conquer). The 'sign' is the monogram of Christ, made from the Greek ch and rho, of CHRistos. The obverse of the talisman of zodiacal Leo, designed to attract favours, and to protect against pestilence and fires. From Paracelsus, The Archidoxes of Magic, 1656. The reverse of the talisman of zodiacal Leo, designed to attract favours, and to protect against pestilence and fires. From Paracelsus, The Archidoxes of Magic, 1656.