Book of Protection, In Syriac

Access and use

Location of collection:
University of Virginia, Special Collections Dept.
Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library
University of Virginia
P.O. Box 400110
160 McCormick Rd
Charlottesville, Virginia 22904-4110
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Brenda Gunn
Phone: (434) 924-1037
Phone: (434) 243-1776
Fax: (434) 924-4968
Restrictions:

The collection is open for research use.

Preferred citation:

MSS 16684, Book of Protection, In Syriac, Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia Library.

Summary

Extent:
0.03 Cubic Feet 1 letter folder
Language:
Syriac
Preferred citation:

MSS 16684, Book of Protection, In Syriac, Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia Library.

Background

Scope and content:

The book of protection, in Syriac is a scarce and richly-illustrated miniature manuscript compendium of protective charms in Syriac. It contains prayers and incantations invoking saints and others for protection against fear, implements of war, sickness, lunacy, headaches, dogs, and the evil eye, wolves, snakes, scorpions, and much else.

It is neatly written in a single hand in black and red ink within red borders and contains 19 illustrations to the text. In contemporary dark brown with original blind-ruled goatskin over pulp boards, with a carrying pouch in contemporary leather with flap. It is a rare example of a Syriac book of protection. It shows how manuscripts can embody folk beliefs and serve as talismans. It also enriches knowledge of book history and Middle Eastern book culture.

Acquisition information:
This collection was purchased from Bernard Quaritch by the Small Special Collections Library at the University of Virginia Library on December 6, 2019.
Physical description:
Good
Physical facet:
miniature book manuscript
Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Indexed terms

Subjects:
Traditional medicine
Miniature books.