Hebrew Manuscript written on vellum. Each column with extensive multi-color illumination, set on wooden scroll. Opening panel repaired with loss provided in later hand.

ILLUMINATED SCROLL OF ESTHER

Italian, 18th century

Each column of text is framed with archway comprised of green and red geometric and floral motifs. One unsual series of drawings along the top of archway is animal imagery - both fantastical and real. A peacock is seen eating out of an urn; a playing flautist walks his dog; a lioness and human infant atop an arch’s column. The text column of Haman and his Ten Sons includes elaborate gallows structure and the eleven men hanging horizontally with Haman at top, larger and bearded. Folksy imagery show all in pointed hats, eyes enlarged and hands bound.