Obj. ID: 53365
Hebrew Illuminated Manuscripts Segulot u-Refuot, Berdychiv (Berdyczów, Berdichev), 1831/2
The following description was prepared by William Gross:
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the subject of medicine progressed rapidly. But still there existed the time-honored traditions and formulas that were drawn from experience and tradition. Both science and tradition are represented in the publication of many books regarding medicine and cures of ailments. There are still many items that today would be considered amuletic. This one of those volumes.
Unlike most such texts in the Gross Family Collection that are printed books, this is a manuscript that is a compilation of folk medicines, charms and amulets. It is unusual to find such books from Eastern Europe, especially with a decorated title page. The writing inside is typcal of the slightly arched form often found in Hassidic manuscripts. Berdichew was home to a large Hassidic community.
17 image(s)
