"Opening to the Scroll of Esther". Decorated leaf of blessings, with kabbalistic kavanot. [Yemen, 19th century].
Ink and paint on parchment.
Rectangular parchment leaf, comprising the verses and prayers recited in the Yemenite rite before and after the Megillah reading, next to kabbalistic kavanot based on the teachings of the Arizal. Some verses highlighted in red ink. Ten Sefirot, appearing over some words, written in red. Red frame around leaf with repeating vegetal pattern, topped by three decorated arches.
26.5X37.5 cm. Fair-good condition. Creases, stains and fading of ink, affecting text and decorations. Pieces of margin missing, professionally restored. Old punctures to right and left margins, apparently from early sewing.