A silver Esther scroll case and pointer
Amsterdam, The Netherlands, circa 1740
This fine Esther Scroll was made for Elijah Norden, who was one of the most important leaders of the Ashkenazi Jewish community of Amsterdam in the first half of the 18th century. Elijah Norden was involved in a major dispute over the appointment of the Chief Rabbi of Amsterdam in 1735, a post for which he was a strong supporter of Elazar Rokeach, formerly Brody’s rabbi, for whom his support had a decisive influence. The coat of arms of the English branch of the Norden family is engraved on the case, including the Latin motto “PROVIDENTIA TUTAMUR” (protected by providence). A unique feature of this case is a miniature silver Pointer kept in the handle. The pointer was wrapped with a piece of parchment inscribed with the blessings and with the poem recited after reading the book of Esther, as well as the name and title of the scroll’s owner. The case and the pointer are particularly elegant and crafted in magnificent quality.
Small control mark on the handle
H_25 cm (9 ²⁷/₃₂ in)
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