defense against the evil eye

- Gad Ullman's [born 1935] "Hamsa Hand" recalls ancient Mesopotamian symbolism of protection and prosperity.

world's first great hero

Supreme over other kings, lordly in appearance,
he is the hero, born of Uruk, the goring wild bull.
He walks out in front, the leader,
and walks at the rear, trusted by his companions.
Mighty net, protector of his people,
raging flood-wave who destroys even walls of stone!

- The Epic of Gilgamesh, Tablet I [2800-2700 BCE]

Image source here.