Lot 169
  • 169

A Decorated Ketubbah from Florence, 1808

Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • 26 x 17 inches
ink and gouache on parchment.
height 26 in.; width 17 in.
66 cm; 43 cm

Recording the marriage of Jacob (called) Moses Hayyim, son of Aaron ha-Cohen and Brucha, daughter of Abba Macerata, on Monday 14 Nissan, 5568 [=April 11 1808].

height: 26 in.; width: 17 in.



66 cm; 43 cm




This ketubbah is delicately embellished with micrography, a calligraphic technique of using minuscule lettering to create decorative designs and pictures.  Micrography has been employed by Jewish scribes for more than a thousand years. In this example, the scribe selected verses from the Bible to create his designs. His central motif, two hands raised in blessing, alludes to the groom's status as a Cohen, a member of the priestly class.

Exhibited

To Have and To Hold: Decorated Marriage Contracts, 17th–19th Centuries. The Herbert and Eileen Bernard Museum, Congregation Emanu-El, New York, 2001

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.