Description (CMS Description)
A vellum scroll, known conventionally as ‘magic scrolls’. These are Bibilical texts, believed to provide the wearer protection from misfortune. This example probably dates to the mid 20th century. They are still being made today, but the earliest known are c,17th century. Worn around the neck, mainly by men, in a small cylinder of silver or leather. The language is ‘Ge’ez (Ethiopian litergical language). .
In 2 pieces. B: in poor condition, dry and set in the roll. The previous ?conservation backing, possibly a type of oiled hessian has become detached but is used to support the piece
Event Date 31/10/2016
Author: Rachel Hand

Context (CMS Context)
Collected by Professor David Phillipson, Director of MAA 1981- 2006. The standard work on scrolls written in ‘Ge’ez, the Ethiopian liturgical language is by Jaques Mercer although the linguist and scholar David Appleyard could probably translate them.
Event Date 31/10/2016
Author: Rachel Hand