Հմայիլ [Charming]. - Lot 179

Հմայիլ [Charming]. Constantinople, 1724, 2 rolls (ca 9 x 409 cm), (some wear and soiling). Rare copy of a Hmayil printed in Constantinople in 1724. One of the earliest known editions of these Armenian blessing scrolls, used as spiritual talismans to invoke protection and healing. This specimen bears 21 black woodcut vignettes, partly attributed to Grigor Marzvanetsi, depicting biblical scenes. The engravings were hand-colored at a later date, probably for votive purposes. The text is set in a decorative frame with floral motifs, typical of Ottoman Armenian prints of the early 18th century. A missing part of the scroll has been replaced by a handwritten copy, probably contemporary or later, to complement its ritual use.