Synagogue hall in a glass bottle [Germany], 1888. Very rare

Synagogue hall in a glass bottle [Germany], 1888. Very rare

Synagogue hall in a glass bottle. Spectacular, folksy work by Mrs. Helena Hoffman, in memory of her husband. Rakasdia, 1888.

Unique features: This spectacular exhibit was handmade with intricate, delicate work and includes the smallest details - in the images of Moses and Aaron as well as the synagogue hall. Most of the details were made outside of the bottle and then inserted and positioned correctly through a rounded opening with a diameter of about 60 mm. This work demands both expertise and a light hand. When the work was finished, the opening was closed with a glass bottleneck and wood cork that cannot be opened. This work was made by Helene Hoffman in memory of her husband and apparently donated to the synagogue.

Specifications: [1] glass bottle with wood cork that cannot be opened. 14.5 cm. long, 10 cm. wide, Height until the neck - 25 cm., height including the cork 36 cm.

At center is a four-columned bimah with a Torah Scroll, candelabra and candles on the bimah. Moses stands at the right holding the Luchot HaBrit in his left hand and his staff in his right. Aaron the High Priest stands to the left of the bimah, lifting his hands in the priestly blessing. A Holy Ark is in the back with a red parochet bearing the text סעפער תארא [Torah Scroll].

The upper front section has a decorated arch with the Yiddish text: מיט אנד אלט אים טמפל, and parallel, in the back near the Holy Ark, is the text גאטט זיי מיט אונת.

A large star of David with the year 5648 at its center is on a red background on the back of the bottle. A handwritten German dedication is on the bottom:  "Dise(!) Kunstflasche/ ist verfertigt am/ 1sten Juni 1888 zur/ Erinnerung des/ l. M. Hoffman/ t. Gattin Helene/ Rakasdia." [This artistic bottle was created on the 1st of June, 1888, in memory of M. Hoffman, his wife Helene, Rakasdia.]

There is a note with a few words that have not been deciphered on the inside of the bottom of the bottle.

Condition: Other than aging stains and some dirt in the interior of the bottle, everything is in very fine condition.