1: A small bible or a ‘prayer book’, written in black and red in Ethiopian script (and probably also in the Ethiopian sacred language ‘Geez’) on 40 pages of animal skin (parchment). Bound between wooden covers. In a two-piece sleeve made of brown leather, by means of which the book can also be worn as a protective amulet in everyday life. First third of the 20th century. Measures of book: 7.3 cm x 5 cm x 2.2 cm.
2: A so-called ‘magic scroll’, used by special priests of the Ethiopian Christian Church to heal the sick. During the rites performed by the priests, these ‘magic scrolls’ are placed on the patient’s body. The 'magic scroll' consists of four stripes of parchment (animal skin) sewn together, inscribed black and red with religious texts in Ethiopian script (and probably also in the sacred language 'Geez’), in two columns.
At the beginning of the scroll, in the middle as well as in the lower third, the text is interrupted by three images painted in black and red. In the upper section, two images of Archangel Michael. In the middle: faces and abstract symbols. In the lower section: two images of the cross with a saint in each. This ‘magic scroll’ is also preserved in a two-piece, dark brown leather case. Thanks to a leather flap sewn to its upper part, this 'magic scroll' can also be worn as a protective amulet in everyday life. This object displays very good, old patina. 19th century, early 20th century; dimensions: 155 cm x 12.3 cm (in total). (ME)