Photo © Israel Museum, Jerusalem, by Elie Posner |
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Torah mantle and finials Sefrou, Morocco Torah mantle 1925/26 Cotton, silk; gilt metal-thread embroidery H: 67; Diam: 29 cm Inscribed in Hebrew: “This is the Torah that was written by me, Servant of the Lord, Amram Azini, may the Lord protect and sustain me, year 5686 (1925/26)” Gift of Shlomo Zini, Moshav Yad Rambam B70.0644, 151/106
Jewelry-style Torah finials (tappuhim) |
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In Morocco it was customary to cover the scroll with a mantle (unlike the tradition in most North African communities, where it is enclosed in a rigid case). Illustrations in Hebrew manuscripts suggest that the custom originated in Spain. This mantle was constructed by combining a stiff body and a hard, round top, both strengthened with cardboard. Gilt metal-thread embroidery embellished a cut-out leather pattern to create dense geometric patterns and stylized floral designs. The textiles associated with Torah scroll were usually embroidered by Jewish men. Digital presentation of this object was made possible by: The Ridgefield Foundation, New York, in memory of Henry J. and Erna D. Leir |
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