Wimpel Embroidered in Colorful Silk – Germany, 1714

Wimpel (Torah binder), commemorating the birth of the child Moshe son of Meir. [Germany], 1714.

Silk thread embroidery in various colors on linen.

Composed of four linen sheets of equal size, sewn together. At the center, the following embroidered inscription appears: "Moshe son of Meir, born / under the sign of Aries / Tuesday, 11th Nisan 5474; may he grow in Torah, and to marriage and good deeds…".

The inscription is executed in large letters (some reaching a height of 7-9 cm), in brightly colored silk threads, lending the wimpel a striking luminosity. In addition to the decorated letters, the upper and lower margins are embroidered with figural motifs, including animals (dogs, deer, foxes, birds), flowers and plants, a human figure holding an animal on a leash, and geometric designs. A Torah Scroll motif encircles the word "in Torah"; several of the Lamed stems are adorned with zoomorphic designs.

Height: 20 cm. Length: 288 cm. Fair-good condition. Tears. Stains. Loose threads, mostly at margins. Mounted on new, thin linen backing for reinforcement.