- 86
An Amulet for Childbirth, Amsterdam, circa 1700
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
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Description
- paper
ink on paper.
height 8 in.; width 7 in.
20 cm; 18 cm
This elaborate engraved amulet was created by Abraham bar Jacob, a convert to Judaism famous for his copperplate engravings in the 1695 Amsterdam Haggadah. It is the earliest printed Hebrew amulet recorded. The engraving contains illustrations copied from etchings by the Swiss artist Mattheus Merian for a Bible published between 1625 and 1630. In the central panel we see Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as well as the names of the angels Sanoi, Sansanoi and Semangelof. The text of Psalm 121 is printed below the central panel. In the upper corners of the central panel and in the lower corners of the engraving itself are the four winds blowing forth the words of a verse, For He will order His angels to guard you wherever you go (Psalms 91:11). Other scenes include (above, at center) Abraham and the three angels; (above, left); Isaac blessing Jacob; (above, right) a circumcision ceremony; (below) David playing the harp; and (below, left)Joseph with the sun, moon and stars.
height 8 in.; width 7 in.
20 cm; 18 cm
This elaborate engraved amulet was created by Abraham bar Jacob, a convert to Judaism famous for his copperplate engravings in the 1695 Amsterdam Haggadah. It is the earliest printed Hebrew amulet recorded. The engraving contains illustrations copied from etchings by the Swiss artist Mattheus Merian for a Bible published between 1625 and 1630. In the central panel we see Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as well as the names of the angels Sanoi, Sansanoi and Semangelof. The text of Psalm 121 is printed below the central panel. In the upper corners of the central panel and in the lower corners of the engraving itself are the four winds blowing forth the words of a verse, For He will order His angels to guard you wherever you go (Psalms 91:11). Other scenes include (above, at center) Abraham and the three angels; (above, left); Isaac blessing Jacob; (above, right) a circumcision ceremony; (below) David playing the harp; and (below, left)Joseph with the sun, moon and stars.
Condition
Matted and framed. Not examined outside of frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.