Italian-rite illustrated Esther scroll with figures

This scroll (meguila) contains the book of Esther, read publicly in the synagogue during the festival of Purim, which celebrates the salvation of the Jews of Persia from Haman's plot. Following Italian usage, the columns of text are framed by engraved or painted borders, and Italian méguilot are distinguished by their rich ornamental programs. They develop narrative scenes illustrating the story, historiated architectural porticoes and motifs inherited from Renaissance and Baroque art. An object of festive devotion that permits imagery, the illustrated Esther scroll makes the Italian meguila one of the summits of Jewish book art.