From Greek Reporter:
Ancient Greek and Roman beliefs about the evil eye are reflected in miniature mirrors that may have protected their owners from misfortune, according to a new archaeological study. The small objects, found across what is now Israel and neighboring areas, were probably valued more as charms than as tools for checking appearances.
Researchers Eli Buchman and Adi Erlich analyzed 36 decorated lead mirror frames dating largely from the third to seventh centuries. Sixteen came from Caesarea Maritima, a coastal city that served as a provincial capital. Their study was published Tuesday in Palestine Exploration Quarterly. In the Greek and Roman world, mirrors were believed to send harmful influences, particularly the evil eye, back toward their source. Small examples could be worn as amulets, hung on cradles or kept near beds. They were also placed in graves, where they were thought to protect the dead.