CONTINENTAL EMBROIDERED LINEN TORAH BINDER.

1671

Wimpel featuring an elegant trim of embroidered guipure lace. Hebrew inscription on first section: “A gift of Madam Esther, wife of R. Shlomo Kolorny, in the year 5531.” Four parts expertly sewn together culminating with two tie strings. Slightly worn in places, not affecting lettering. Length: 148 inches (without ties).

From the Middle Ages fine embroidery was a vital part of a Jewish woman’s upbringing as apparent from textiles utilized for both domestic and religious purposes. Often, women sought recognition of their handiwork which may be revealed in an inscription along the textile itself, such as the one in the present example.