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18th C. Moroccan Megillat Esther Handwritten on Parchment & Rare PiyutDescription:
Up for sale is a highly collectible and historically significant piece of Sephardic Judaica: an original, handwritten Megillat Esther (Book of Esther) on parchment, originating from Morocco and dating back to the 18th century.
Item Specifications:
Origin: Morocco, 18th Century.
Material: 7 attached sheets of genuine animal parchment. The parchment has aged beautifully over the centuries, developing a deep, rich brown patina.
Script: Traditional Sephardic scribal script (Ketav Sofer Sefardi).
Layout: The text is arranged in 23 columns.
Dimensions: The height of the parchment is 16 cm (approx. 6.3 inches). The total length of the scroll is over 3 meters(approx. 9.8 feet).
Special Feature: The Rare "Piyut Avraham Beshalmor"What truly sets this specific Megillah apart is the exceptionally rare inclusion of a handwritten liturgical poem (Piyut) preceding the main text. Located at the very beginning of the scroll, you will find the "Piyut Avraham Beshalmor."
In Moroccan-Jewish tradition, specific local communities or scribes occasionally added prefatory poems to their Megillot to be sung or recited before the reading of the scroll. This specific manuscript version is highly important for researchers and collectors because it contains fascinating textual variations (שינויים) compared to the known printed versions. It offers a direct, unedited glimpse into the authentic liturgical customs and scribal traditions of 18th-century Moroccan Jewry, making it much more than just a standard Megillah.
Condition Report:The overall condition is fair/moderate, which is consistent with its 300-year-old age and historical use.
There are natural age-related stains and some worn/faded letters, as well as minor tears along the edges.
Scribal Emendations: An interesting historical feature of this scroll is that in several places, omitted words were meticulously completed by the scribe via interlinear insertions.
(Please carefully review the provided photographs, as they are an integral part of the item's condition description).
This is a rare opportunity to own a unique, museum-quality manuscript with distinctive Moroccan heritage. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Important Notice for U.S. Buyers:
Please note that all new import taxes andcustoms duties from Israel to the United States are already included in theitem price. I prepay these fees directly through the shipping company in Israel.You will receive your item hassle-free, with absolutely no additional customscharges or fees upon delivery.
