Israel’s National Library has loaned a rare illustrated Esther scroll, more than 400 years old, to the National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah for a new exhibition in northern Italy.
The scroll, written and illustrated in 1616, is part of “Beautiful Esther: Purim, a Timeless Story,” an exhibition that opened this week at the museum in Ferrara. The exhibit explores the biblical story of Queen Esther through Renaissance art, rare manuscripts, historical artifacts, and interactive displays.
The National Library’s scroll was created by an artist named Pescarol for Mordechai ben Eliyahu HaLevi, who lived in Brescello, a town near Ferrara. Its loan marks a symbolic return to the region where it was originally produced.
The scroll’s illustrations depict the Purim story in vivid detail, including dramatic portrayals of violence. Scenes include the beheading of Queen Vashti and the hanging of Haman and his sons.
“This is one of the earliest illustrated Esther scrolls in existence, and its images are an integral part of the narrative,” said Dr. Chaim Neria, curator of the Haim and Hanna Salomon Judaica Collection at the National Library. “The artwork reflects the style of Italian Renaissance art and helps tell the story, rather than serving as mere decoration.”
Oren Weinberg, director of the National Library, said the collaboration highlights the importance of sharing Jewish heritage with international audiences.
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“This exhibition allows the public in Italy to see an important scroll that reflects the richness of Italian Jewish culture,” he said. “The National Library values these partnerships, which help bring our collections to a wider audience.”