Decorated protective amulet on parchment. [Italy, 18th century?].
Brownish-black ink; green and red paint (which in combination with the white unpainted sections resemble the colors of the Italian flag), on a square piece of parchment.
The center exhibits a Hamsa within a Star of David, surrounded by a patterned circle enclosed within a square. The names of ten angels are written inside the circle and in the corners of the square. The phrase “Lilith Chutz [Lilith be gone]” is written along each side of the square. The outer amulet frame contains verses from the Priestly Blessing and the 22-letter Holy Name, with the names of the patriarchs and matriarchs written in its four corners: Adam and Eve; Abraham and Sarah; Isaac and Rebecca; and Jacob and Leah.
The shape and format of this amulet are consistent with amulets produced in the 17th and 18th centuries in Italy, which were placed in unique silver amulet holders. See: The Stieglitz Collection, Masterpieces of Jewish Art, Chaya Benjamin (The Israel Museum, 1987), item 266.II.
Approx. 15X15cm. Overall good condition. Some stains, creases and general wear commensurate with age. Ink faded in places.

PLEASE NOTE: Item descriptions were shortened in translation. For further information, please refer to Hebrew text.