Embroidered tablecloth. [Iraq, first decades of the 20th century].
Gilt silk thread embroidery on cotton.
Round tablecloth. In the middle is a symmetrical embroidered decoration in vegetal motifs, surrounded by a bouquet of leaves and flowers. Four hands (hamsas) separate the central decoration from the line of text, also embroidered in a round form: "The angel who has redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and in them let my name be perpetuated, Ben Porat Yosef Ben Porat Alei Ayin…" [Hebrew]. The external framework also features a vegetal motif.
Approx. 78X75 cm. Good condition. Some stains. Traces of red threads on margins and in the center (perhaps from beads or other ornaments that were sewn onto the margins or the center).
Compare Iraqi Sabbath tablecloth in the Israel Museum collection, no. B94. 0522.