Lot 599
Ethiopian Religious/Magic Book. Approximately 50 pages, 6½ x 4" handwritten in Geeshe on gazelle skin, sewn bindings, wooden cover, housed in a leather (well worn) pouch.
These books were prepared by unordained priests, called "debteras," and were intended as talismans to protect the owner from the evil eye or to be used in magic rites for exorcizing those possessed by evil spirits, healing and for protection during childbirth. In their preparation, animal sacrifice is usually demanded, after which the gazelle skin is cleaned, dried, cut and sewn together. The manuscript is derived from the traditional repertory of Abyssinian/Axumite culture.
Estimated Value $350 - 500.
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| Realized $230 |
