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.
“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.
“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.”
