Or 12859 Amulet scroll for protection against enemies (ink & colour on parchment)

This particular scroll, preserved in cylindrical silver case was created to protect its owner from harm. Written in Ge’ez (Ethiopic) dated to early 18th century, it contains prayers for protection against “enemies”. Fourteen illustrations decorate the scroll; the first significant image shows Alexander the Great with the caption “the enemy of devils”, while the other images two angels leading Satan bound and St George fighting a demon. These figurative and talismanic drawings were added after the incantations were written, giving effect to its powers. The drawings have a specific purpose: they are intended to banish demons and protect the client.