Obj. ID: 3648
Sacred and Ritual Torah case wrapper, Tunisia, end of the 19th century
The rectangular Torah case wrapper is divided vertically into a central narrow rectangle, flanked by two square panels. The central panel is adorned with an elongated ogee arch, enclosing a vase topped by on open hand (hamsa).
The side panels are decorated in a symmetrical pattern, depicting four foliate patterns forming rhomboids, set on each of the corners, point towards a central open flower, and surround it.
The rhomboids are formed by scrolled fleurs-de lys, while four smaller flowers are set between them.
The entire wrapper and the panels are framed with stripes decorated with a pattern of open hands (hamsa), crescents (hilal), stars and flowers.
Ten hooks for hanging the wrapper on the Torah case are attached to its upper edge, while a strip of fringes is attached to its bottom.
The strips are of French origin, and were especially made for the North African customers.
sub-set tree: 
Cloth: silk bordeaux velvet
Lining: cotton in tabby
Decoration: gold and silver threads in laid and couched embroidery
Foundation: cotton in twill
Inscription: gold and silver threads in laid and couched embroidery
Foundation: cotton in twill
Additions: industrial strip of wound gold and silver threads, fringes
Width: 930 mm