Esther scroll housed in an ornate silver case. Austro-Hungary (possibly Vienna), [late 19th century].

Silver, cast, turned, repoussé and engraved (marked with Austro-Hungarian fineness marks in use between 1886-1922, and maker’s mark “J.V” in a rectangular frame); ink on parchment.

“HaMelekh” scroll (most columns begin with the word “HaMelekh”), written on four parchment sheets sewn one to the other; 21 columns of text, 21 lines per column; with Tagim (decorative crownlets over designated letters).

Housed in a high-quality cylindrical silver case, decorated with repeating vegetal motifs. A central cartouche is engraved with the monogram “AUS”; crown shaped ornament at the top of the case, surmounted by a floral finial; plain rectangular silver pull bar with a small rotating handle (for locking).

Height of parchment: 14 cm. Good condition. Some staining, mostly to final sheet. Height of case (including handle): 34 cm. Good condition. One floral element missing from upper ornament. Minor warping.