Charming Baroque
Angels and Cherubs in the Skies of Jerusalem
Exhibition: August - September, 2003
It is true that Baroque was born in Italy, but there is no need to travel so far to see the most characteristic Baroque motifs: spiral columns, flying angels, shells, impressive towers and more.
The art of Baroque originated in Papal Rome during the 17th and 18th centuries. From there it spread throughout Europe and even to Latin America. The Baroque artists searched for the undefined and infinite, fluid movement and dramatic expression. In their works of art, they appealed to feelings and sensations and tried to bewitch one’s heart.
The Jews of Italy were also influenced by the spirit of the Baroque. They used the typical Baroque motifs to decorate their sacred objects and everyday utensils.
The jug and bowl used for the traditional hand-washing during the Seder night, was designed by a 17th century artist, in the form of a shell and a conch made of silver. The shell, used as a bowl for collecting the water is designed with depressions and divisions creating a feeling of liquid movement. 
There is a pair of scrolls on the base which is also a well-known Baroque motif. The conch, from which the water is poured, has a rounded, crowned handle, which is also designed to create an illusion of movement.
The marriage certificate (ketubah) of the newlyweds Nehemia ben Yaacov and Sara bat Moshe Yedidia Mi’adumim, who were married in Ferrara in 1721 is richly and beautifully decorated: spiral columns on bases in the form of little angels and rainbows reminding one of the monumental entrance gate to a magnificent building. 
Colourful flowers strewn over the parchment, gently intertwining star shapes indicating the embroidered connection between the couple. A pair of little angels with flowing, outstretched wings symbolise the supreme protection of the marriage.
Rare silver, textile, print and wooden objects designed during the Baroque period and inspired by its influence will be on display during the summer months of August and September in this unique exhibition in the Museum of Italian Jewish Art.
Opening hours:
Sun, Tue, Wed: 9 am - 5 pm
Mon: 9 am - 2 pm
Thu, Fri: 9 am - 1 pm
For more details and coordination for guided tours, please contact:
Orit Gafni, the Museum Curator, tel. 02-6241610; 02-5671583; fax: 02-6253480,
or Navah Kessler: 02-5610146;
Free Guided Tours:
Thursdays, 2 Aug, 14 Aug, 28 Aug, 2003
10 am- English
12 pm- Hebrew
Angels and Cherubs in the Skies of Jerusalem
Exhibition: August - September, 2003
It is true that Baroque was born in Italy, but there is no need to travel so far to see the most characteristic Baroque motifs: spiral columns, flying angels, shells, impressive towers and more.The art of Baroque originated in Papal Rome during the 17th and 18th centuries. From there it spread throughout Europe and even to Latin America. The Baroque artists searched for the undefined and infinite, fluid movement and dramatic expression. In their works of art, they appealed to feelings and sensations and tried to bewitch one’s heart.The Jews of Italy were also influenced by the spirit of the Baroque. They used the typical Baroque motifs to decorate their sacred objects and everyday utensils.The jug and bowl used for the traditional hand-washing during the Seder night, was designed by a 17th century artist, in the form of a shell and a conch made of silver. The shell, used as a bowl for collecting the water is designed with depressions and divisions creating a feeling of liquid movement. There is a pair of scrolls on the base which is also a well-known Baroque motif. The conch, from which the water is poured, has a rounded, crowned handle, which is also designed to create an illusion of movement.The marriage certificate (ketubah) of the newlyweds Nehemia ben Yaacov and Sara bat Moshe Yedidia Mi’adumim, who were married in Ferrara in 1721 is richly and beautifully decorated: spiral columns on bases in the form of little angels and rainbows reminding one of the monumental entrance gate to a magnificent building. Colourful flowers strewn over the parchment, gently intertwining star shapes indicating the embroidered connection between the couple. A pair of little angels with flowing, outstretched wings symbolise the supreme protection of the marriage.Rare silver, textile, print and wooden objects designed during the Baroque period and inspired by its influence will be on display during the summer months of August and September in this unique exhibition in the Museum of Italian Jewish Art.Opening hours:
Sun, Tue, Wed: 9 am - 5 pm
Mon: 9 am - 2 pm
Thu, Fri: 9 am - 1 pm
For more details and coordination for guided tours, please contact:
Orit Gafni, the Museum Curator, tel. 02-6241610; 02-5671583; fax: 02-6253480,
or Navah Kessler: 02-5610146;
Free Guided Tours:
Thursdays, 2 Aug, 14 Aug, 28 Aug, 2003
10 am- English
12 pm- Hebrew
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