Italian Jewish Renaissance - The Beauty of Italian Judaica
An exhibition of artifacts from the U. Nahon Museum of Italian Jewish Art, Jerusalem
Italian Jewish Renaissance showcases the elegance, refinement and harmony that characterize Italian Jewish culture. By combining their own traditions with Italian aesthetics, Jewish artists have created works of rare quality. Sacred Jewish objects are decorated with the finest techniques and motifs of Italian art, everyday items are imbued with aesthetic value, and beauty is pursued through technical skill. This spectacular exhibition is a tribute to the synergy of Italian Jewish art.
Most of the 40 objects on display date from the golden age of Jewish art in Italy between the Renaissance of the fifteenth century and the Risorgimento or Italian National Revival of the nineteenth century. Inspired by their cultural surroundings and supported by wealthy patrons, Jewish artists merged the spiritual with the material to produce sacred objects of artistic importance. Precise decorations integrated style with theme. The Jewish tradition of using and creating fine objects to beautify the religious commandments had reached its artistic apex.
The synergy between Jewish content and Italian artistic influence continues today. Italians have long decorated their synagogues with astonishing embroidery. The parochet – the curtain covering the ark of the Torah – designed by Emanuele Luzzati is a modern example of this tradition. The Shabbat candlesticks created by Luigi Del Monte are another contemporary highlight of the exhibition.
Opening: March 31, 2016
On display until: January 10, 2017
Curator: Micol Schreiber Benarroch
Chief Curator: Dr. Orit Shaham Gover
Curatorial and Research Advisor: Andreina Contessa Ph.D.
The Lady Sarah Cohen Gallery, entrance floor