C. 1700s Ethiopian Manuscript Book of Prayers W/ Satchel and Illustration
$ 1230.83
Description
An authentic Ethiopian manuscript codex dating to approximately the mid-18th century (c. 1700s), accompanied by its original hand-made leather carrying satchel. This is a complete traditional set, preserved in the manner it would have been used and transported. The manuscript is handwritten on parchment (animal skin) in Geʽez, the sacred liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The text is rendered in black ink with red rubrication highlighting sacred names and invocations. Bound between wooden covers and sewn with cord, the book retains its original structure and character, showing age and use consistent with its history. Included: Handwritten parchment manuscript book 158 Pages (79 leaves) Original wooden covers with cord binding Hand-stitched leather satchel with shoulder strap Physical Details (Manuscript): Material: Parchment Script: Geʽez Ink: Black with red rubrication Binding: Hand-sewn, wooden boards Format: Portable devotional codex Physical Details (Satchel): Material: Hand-worked leather Construction: Stitched and riveted Strap: Long shoulder strap for carrying Condition: Heavy wear consistent with age and use Content & Function: This manuscript is most consistent with a devotional prayer or protective religious text, rather than a complete Bible. Its portable size and the presence of a fitted satchel indicate it was intended to be carried—likely by a priest, monk, or lay practitioner—for daily prayer, blessing, or spiritual protection. Such manuscripts often include: Prayers and invocations Protective or healing texts References to God, Christ, the Virgin Mary, and archangels Liturgical formulas used in personal devotion An illustrated angel within the manuscript supports its role in protection and intercession. Translated Inscription: A partial reading of the opening page reveals a traditional invocation prayer (Roughly Translated): “In the name of God, the Lord, through Jesus Christ, may there be blessing and protection. By the power of the holy ones, guard and preserve the faithful from evil and affliction.” This reflects the devotional and protective nature typical of Ethiopian prayer manuscripts. Historical Context: Ethiopian manuscript traditions preserved ancient methods of bookmaking for centuries. Books like this were often produced by clergy and carried in leather satchels, making them both spiritual tools and personal objects of protection. The inclusion of the original satchel significantly enhances both authenticity and historical interest, as many manuscripts are separated from their cases over time. Condition: Manuscript: Age-related wear, staining, and fading; binding intact Satchel: Heavy wear, surface loss, and patina consistent with long-term use Collectability: A highly desirable example for collectors of: African and Ethiopian antiquities Religious artefacts Early manuscripts Ethnographic objects Complete sets with original satchels are increasingly scarce. Dimensions (W/ Slipcase/Satchel): Weight - 265g Height - 11.5cm Width - 9cm Thickness - 4.5cm
Item arrived much better than described and is such a privilege to own, ty as this probably cost you more to send than I paid (honestly, I expected the item to be of much, much poorer quality for the prise!), well packaged and shipped fast. would encourage anyone to buy from this person! A +++
Couldn't be happier! Very fast shipping from the UK. Packaged well and all arrived in great shape. Exactly as described at a very fair price. I will put them in Pride of Place in my library. Thanks much! 5*
Beautiful! A piece of history in great condition for being 250 years old. Fast shipping with tracking was very helpful. Very pleased with kind and fast service.
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