1114 – Book of Shadows

Physical description:

Black leather-bound Book of Shadows with pentacle on front, marbled end-papers; blank inside except for inscription at back.

Museum classification:

Modern Witchcraft

Size:

245 x 210 x 20 mm

Information:

The Book of Shadows is a manuscript containing the rituals, spells and traditions of a witch or coven. Most witches are given access to a book of shadows when they are initiated; they are expected to copy the book in their own handwriting. The book becomes a very personal treasure and will grow as the witch adds more spells, recipes and formula.
The contents of a Book of Shadows are a closely guarded secret. On the death of a witch their book is usually destroyed or passed to another coven member.
This book belonged to an elderly gentleman who gave it to a witch in Linconshire. After 12 years and an unfortunate incident with the elderly gentleman, the witch decided not to use the book any more and kindly donated it to the Museum in 1998.

Resource:

Object

Materials:

Paper, leather

The Book of Shadows is a manuscript containing the rituals, spells and traditions of a witch or coven. Most witches are given access to a book of shadows when they are initiated; they are expected to copy the book in their own handwriting. The book becomes a very personal treasure and will grow as the witch adds more spells, recipes and formula.
The contents of a Book of Shadows are a closely guarded secret. On the death of a witch their book is usually destroyed or passed to another coven member.
This book belonged to an elderly gentleman who gave it to a witch in Linconshire. After 12 years and an unfortunate incident with the elderly gentleman, the witch decided not to use the book any more and kindly donated it to the Museum in 1998.