Ethiopia: The Fourth Century Art That Died Out Across the World and the Ethiopian Scribes Trying to Preserve It

Debre Libanos — Misganew Andeurgay changes his bamboo-made pen for another, dips it in a tiny pot of viscous liquid and, on a parchment page filled with black script, begins to trace in scarlet-red ink the Amharic word for god. For centuries Ethiopian scribes like Misganew have written holy texts in manuscripts made out of leather and worshipful respect, inscribing on them holy names in red ink.

"It is a difficult job but I like it," 50-year-old Misganew, who has taught and practised the craft of writing Amharic calligraphy for 21 years, tells IPS. He adds that sitting on the floor for hours on end as he writes is hard on his knees and legs.

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