Amulet for the protection of a pregnant woman, her newborn and her home. [Near-East, Kurdistan (?), Iraq (?), Eretz Israel (?), early 20th century.]
Ink on paper.
Rare amulet, with Kabbalistic intents, symbols and texts, to guard the pregnant woman, her newborn, home, and all those who dwell within its walls.
Depicted in the center is a multi-winged angel, standing on an architectural structure. At his side are two large knives surrounded by a chain of knives, with the verses "Behold the litter of Solomon; sixty mighty men are around it, of the mighty men of Israel… (Song of Songs 3:7-8)" between the blades. The priestly blessing appears below the knives.
Many verses and texts are written on the amulet, several in their entirety and several partly or with acronyms, next to illustrations, stars of David, names of angels and various mystical letter combinations.
Very few such amulets exist, and the topic has not been researched thoroughly. Most amulets have been interpreted only partially or incorrectly. Through comparison of this amulet with others of this genre, it is clear that this amulet was created as one of a set of four to be placed on each wall of the room, with only minor differences between them. This amulet has the Hebrew word "Ox" written over the angel, referring to one of the creatures of the Heavenly chariot. (The others are lion, eagle and man). The angel is standing on a structure representing the Cave of Machpelah, with the words "Isaac and Rebecca"; one of the four couples buried in the cave. (The other couples are represented on the other amulets – Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sara, Jacob and Leah. Each couple represents one of the creatures of the Heavenly chariot and one of the four directions). The center of the amulet contains the Hebrew word "North"; the other amulets represent the other directions.
Approx. 47X33 cm. Fair-good condition. Tears and stains in the margins, with damage to the paper and the text, and several pieces of paper missing. Brown paper strips are attached to the back of the amulet, along the margins. Several dampstains on the bottom.
For further information, see:
1. The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life (University of California, Berkeley), Bernard Kimmel collection, Item no. 68.83 (2007.0.65; A5).
2. Sotheby's, Important Judaica, including property from the estate of Shlomo Moussaieff, New York, 15 December 2016 (Sale N09589), Lot 107.
3. Angels and Demons, Jewish Magic Through the Ages, Edited by Filip Vukosavovi?. Bible Lands Museum, Jerusalem, 2010, p. 84.