The Megilla blessings, illustrated parchment leaf. [Italy?, 18th century?].
Colored ink on parchment. Frame illustrated in the shape of an architectural gate under a balcony ornamented with vases, flowers, and two roosters with crests. In the center of the gate, the blessings said before and after reading the megillah are written [with instructions: "The reader shall bless with proper intent before the megillah reading", and "After the reading he shall make the blessing…"]. Written under the blessings is the chorus: "Cursed is Haman and blessed is Mordechai…". Apparently, the illustrated frame is from an earlier period than the time the blessings were written in the center of the leaf.
23x25 cm. Fair condition. Faded color, creases and folds.