Torah Finials
Tunisia, 1937
Silver, plated and engraved
Courtesy of the Leonid and Tatiana Nevzlin Collection
Must Know
In synagogues the scroll of the Torah, is often decorated with silver finials. The eclectic shapes often merge architectural details, with hebrew citations, which refer to the Torah’s central status in Jewish life. The use of diverse motifs documents the constant cultural exchange between the Jewish congregations in various regions of the world. These “rimonim” are from Tunisia, which are typically tower shaped and are a six facet two story structure.
More Info
These finials show a specifically Italian Jewish iconographical trait: the insertion of separate ornaments portraying elements from the array of sanctuary implements; the Menorah, Ark of the Covenant, a laver and basin, the priestly blessing, and the High Priest’s robe. The typical Italian Rimon was adopted and modified in the Tunisian synagogue Judaica. Jews from Livorno (leghorn) (Juif Portugais) came to the city of Tunis and influenced the Jewish community greatly, importing many of the Livorno customs. Two identical inscriptions are inscribed along the shafts: Dedicated for the repose of the soul of Aharon Khayat, who passed away on the 14th of Av, 5697 May he rest in Eden. May his soul be bound in the bond of life. July the 22nd 1937
