A unique item. Hand written and illustrated on Vellum
Size:
Width: 22 cms
Length: 190cms
Illustated designs: Christian Orthodox Icons.
Top to bottom:
Madonna with Christ Child above two angels look on.
Seal of Solomon
Probably St. Mark the Evangelist
Seal of Solomon within a Cross Design
Most of these scrolls were hand made during the 18th and 19th Century, some earlier.
I would estimate this one to be 19th Century.
Ethiopian talismanic scrolls served three main functions:
Protection and healing of one's self.
Exerting external influence.
Practical ritual employment.
The healing functions of these scrolls were often utilized in conjunction with homeopathic medicines. In this sense, the talismanic properties of the scroll treat the spiritual cause of an ailment, while the ingestible medicine treats the symptoms of said ailment. To invoke its healing powers, a third-party interpreter must read the scroll to the sick. This is because the majority of these artifacts are written in Ge'ez, a liturgical language with few remaining speakers. Additionally, the sick can drape the scroll around their body or neck, with the expectation that proximity would pull the affliction out of them.The scrolls are similarly worn for protection, warding off several potential threats, ranging in severity.
Amulet | Talisman Healing scrolls carried prayers specific to the person. Usually a woman. Prepared and written by a Dabtara, an unordained cleric, a class thought to have particularly close association with the spirit world. The scrolls carried a variety of spells, prayers and magic formulas that offered protection or cure against the Evil Eye, malevolent spirits and physical ailments. Small undecorated scrolls were rolled and worn but it is thought that larger and more decorative ones, such as the present example, may have been hung as 'wall amulets'.
One almost standard inclusion in these scrolls, known as the Seal of Solomon or 'captive devil', shows a face surrounded by eight horns within a grid. It appears here in two forms and represents a demon trapped within the confines of the spell design testifying to its efficacy and thus scaring away any other evil spirits. The scroll ends with an illustration of the Seal of Solomon designed as part of a Cross.
A rare and wonderful piece of Original Art from the Lalibela Region of Ethiopia.
After processing by Ebay. I am happy to deliver within the UK.
[ Maybe meet halfway we can message details etc ] for such a precious item.
Please view the image for condition.
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All best
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N