Images(6)

Esther Scroll and Case

Artist Unknown

Datelate 19th century

MediumCase: silver; scroll: ink on parchment

Dimensions10 3/8 × 1 3/4 × 1 7/8 in. (26.4 × 4.4 × 4.8 cm)

ClassificationsMetal

Credit LinePurchased with funds from the Friends of the Judaic Art Gallery

Object number2021.18

On View

On view

Label TextThe elaborate and finely crafted filigree of this scroll case reflects Ottoman design traditions. Many Jews settled in the Ottoman Empire after their expulsion from Spain and Portugal in the 1490s.

The use of the fish motif on this scroll case is likely related to the Hebrew month of Adar, whose zodiac sign is Pisces (the fish). Adar includes the festival of Purim. Since scrolls and cases were often presented as gifts to bridegrooms, the fish may also symbolize a wish for fertility, as in the biblical blessing of Joseph (Genesis 48:16).
ProvenanceProbably created Anatolia [present-day Turkey], late 19th century. [Possibly art market, London, 2010]; private collector, London; to son, ca. 2021; [online sale, Saluto Auctions, London, April 26, 2021, no. 44]; sold to NCMA, 2021.Published References“Spring Sale of Fine Jewellery, Watches and Objects of Vertu,” Saluto Auctions, London, April 26, 2021, lot no. 44.
Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "The People's Collection, Reimagined," October 7, 2022–present. Object Rights Statement

The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) makes images of its collection available online to support research and scholarship and to inform and educate the public. Certain works of art, as well as the photographs of those works of art, may be protected by copyright, trademark, or related interests not owned by the NCMA. The responsibility for ascertaining whether any such rights exist and for obtaining all other necessary permissions remains with the applicant. To request images and/or permissions from the NCMA, please complete our online request form.