A handwritten leaf, a riddle for a wedding celebration. [Italy, 18th/19th century].
In the center of the leaf is a riddle in poetic form composed of four stanzas. Above it - "Tzurat HaChida" – illustration of a field with plantings, and "Dvar HaChida". Flanking the riddle is the riddle's solution. Square and semi-cursive Italian writing, columns marked in red ink.
Leaf, 36.5 cm. Good condition, few stains, wear and tears, folding marks and creases.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, "Chidot Tzura" illustrated riddles) were common among Italian Jews, usually written for wedding celebrations. These riddles, which were presented to amuse and challenge the participants of the joyous occasion, were hand-illustrated or printed on single leaves, all with an overall similar structure. The riddle was written in the form of a sophisticated poem, headed by “Tzurat HaChida”. Several Jewish leaders in Italy wrote such leaves of riddles, including the Ramchal and Rabbi Moshe Zakut. For additional information see: Dan Pagis, Sod Chatum – The History of the Hebrew Riddle in Italy and Holland, Jerusalem 1986 (this leaf of riddle is not recorded there).