Prayer of exorcism in Latin (16th or 17th century)
Prayer of exorcism in Latin (16th or 17th century)
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300 or 400 years ago, a scholar wrote a long prayer in Latin to deliver and protect from the devil and witches.
- Extensive handwritten prayer in Latin, the author of the manuscript has not been identified.
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Two sheets, three pages.
- Basically, in Latin, some notes in Portuguese, with a drawing representing the cross: INRI (Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum).
- 14 cm x 20 cm.
- Document found in Brazil, written in Brazil or Portugal, 16th or 17th century.
- Excellent condition of conservation.
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Unique piece.
Popular tradition says that Saint Anthony gave a prayer to a poor woman who was seeking help against the temptations of the devil. Sixtus V, a Franciscan pope, had the prayer – also called the “motto of Saint Anthony” – carved into the base of the obelisk he had erected in St. Peter’s Square in Rome.
Here is the original prayer, in Latin
Let the Lord be crucified! +
Flee opposing parties! +
Vicit Leo of the Judah tribe, +
Radix David! Alleluia!
Here is the translation, in Portuguese
Behold the cross of the Lord! +
Flee enemy forces! +
The Lion of Judah has conquered, +
The root of David! Hallelujah!
This short prayer has all the flavor of a small exorcism. It can also be used – in Latin or Portuguese – to help overcome the temptations that present themselves to us.
What is the origin of the Blessing of Saint Anthony?
According to the Convent of Saint Anthony and Aleteia, there is very little research into the origin of this blessing. And no serious recent research. To this day, the most cited is that of the Bollandists. And even then, it is based on a legend. They tell it like this:
In Portugal, during the reign of King Diniz, there was a person tormented by diabolical vexations. The enemy of our salvation always appeared to him in the form of Jesus Christ and ordered him to throw himself into the River Tagus, in order to obtain the remission of his sins and the heavenly reward. The unfortunate woman, deceived by Satan's lies, decided one day to drown herself. On the way, she found a Franciscan chapel that appeared far from the fatal project and gave her a parchment, telling her to always carry it with her. When she woke up, she found the precious sheet hanging around her neck, on which were written some lines, later called the "Brief or Letter of Saint Anthony". Immediately, the effectiveness of the heavenly remedy was felt: Satan's obsession disappeared immediately.
The king of Portugal, having learned of the miracle, wanted to see the marvelous writing and sent for it. Since he found himself deprived of his treasure, the person fell into the power of the devil. An exact copy of the Miraculous Brief was brought to him. He received it with confidence, carrying it with him day and night. At that very moment, he regained peace and was freed from such temptations. The king preserved the original among the relics of the crown.
This manuscript, written in Latin and dated to the 16th or 17th century according to a French expert, is in perfect condition. It is the extended form of the original prayer, but we have not discovered who the author of this paper is. Autographed documents dealing with the subject of exorcism are very rare and the aesthetics of the writing impressed me; that is what motivated me to present this very unique piece to you.
This document is currently part of the collection of Embira — Laboratório do Papel, a multidisciplinary, interdepartmental and interinstitutional research laboratory linked to the Faculty of Philosophy, Literature and Human Sciences of the University of São Paulo (FFLCH-USP), which is based on the study and characterization of paper documents. It brings together researchers from the areas of History, Literature (Philology) and Physics, developing instruments for technical and scientific analyses of paper in order to answer questions related to production, circulation, state of conservation and implications of use from different perspectives.
E-mail: embira.fflch@usp.br
Instagram: @embira_usp

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Who selects and certifies the items sold?
All items are selected and certified by Mathias Meyer, a French specialist in autographs, manuscripts, and historical documents since 2010. Throughout his career, he has studied thousands of pieces related to Brazilian history, sports, science, literature, and arts, and is now a member of ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers) and founder of Glórias.
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We accept payment via Pix or bank transfer, both with a 3% discount for upfront payment, as well as credit card in up to 3 interest-free installments, offering convenience and security for customers across Brazil.
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Yes. You can pay in full via Pix or bank transfer with a 3% discount, or pay in up to 3 interest-free installments by credit card, with immediate shipping after payment confirmation. It is also possible to pay in up to 10 installments via Pix; in this case, shipping will be carried out after the full payment of the purchase.
Can I ask for a discount?
We offer a 3% discount for payments made in full (via Pix or bank transfer) or the option to pay in up to 3 interest-free installments by credit card. Furthermore, the prices of our pieces are carefully determined based on international market supply and demand, the specific characteristics of each item, and sales results of similar pieces. For this reason, we typically do not grant additional discounts. However, if you wish to purchase multiple pieces or make an exceptionally high-value purchase, we would be pleased to consider a special commercial arrangement.
How is delivery made? What will I receive?
Delivery time varies approximately from 1 to 10 business days, depending on the recipient's location. In Brazil, we mainly use SEDEX, and for international shipments, FedEx. The document is placed in an elegant laid paper folder and sent in completely discreet packaging. The digital certificate of authenticity and guarantee is sent by email, in PDF format, for security reasons. Shipping is free throughout Brazil. For international shipments, the shipping cost is a fixed R$ 500.00.
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What warranties come with the items?
All items sold by Glórias have a permanent guarantee against eventual certification errors, provided that such error is subsequently demonstrated and confirmed by Mathias Meyer. In this event, the buyer will be fully reimbursed. To date, this situation has never occurred. The guarantee does not cover natural alterations or damage caused by improper storage, exposure to light, humidity, insects, or any other external factor that may compromise the preservation of the paper or ink.
Can I resell this piece in the future?
Yes. Should you wish to sell your piece in the future, please contact us. We will be happy to guide you and help you find a new collector, either through a direct sale or through a specialized auction organized by Glórias.
How can I add value to my collection?
If your goal is to go beyond an isolated purchase, the ideal is to build a coherent collection around a theme, a personality, or a historical period, such as aviation pioneers, women who made history, love letters, old photographs of Rio de Janeiro, Oscar Niemeyer, Pelé, or Ayrton Senna. Mathias Meyer can guide you in forming a consistent collection, according to your interests, objectives, and budget.
How should I store my document or autograph?
To preserve your document in the best condition, we recommend against laminating it or keeping it permanently framed, as paper needs to breathe and prolonged exposure to light can accelerate its deterioration. Ideally, store it in a dry, dark, and clean place, protected from humidity, extreme temperatures, dust, and insects, ensuring its preservation for many decades.
Why aren't these pieces in museums?
Throughout history, much of the world's documentary heritage has been preserved thanks to private collectors and dealers. These enthusiasts of historical documents play a fundamental role in the discovery, study, and preservation of pieces that can later be loaned, donated, or sold to museums and other institutions. In Brazil, where many museums have limited financial resources and staff, this collaboration is even more important. Glórias maintains relationships with public institutions, museums, and researchers, both in Brazil and abroad, sharing discoveries, knowledge, and, in some cases, documents for exhibitions.
Can I offer you a part to buy?
With pleasure. The first step is to conduct a preliminary assessment, which will determine the level of authenticity, market value, and the best strategy for your piece. Depending on the outcome, there are several possibilities, such as direct sale, consignment, or a specialized auction.
Where do the parts sold by Glórias come from?
Every document has a unique story. Most of the pieces offered by Glórias were inherited from families who contacted us, while others were acquired at auctions, where they were poorly identified or undervalued, or came from antique dealers, collectors, or companies. Behind every rare document there is a singular trajectory, which makes collecting a fascinating way to preserve and transmit history.
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