Object numberM2000/019
DescriptionLarge Illuminated Mizrach (manuscript), c. 1880, ink, paint and paper stickers. Mizrach meaning 'East'. Hand painted and inscribed on board with sticker floral borders, as was customary for the late 19th century. The centre piece is the Ten Commandments, left of centre is the prayer for Channukah; to the right of centre is the prayer for Purim. At the bottom right corner is the prayer for Queen Victoria. It also includes verses from Psalms. The flowers are Australiana, according to the donor, Rabbi Fox.
Jews pray facing toward Jerusalem. In Australia this entails facing northwest; however, in lands to the West of the Holy City, the Torah ark is placed towards the east. A mizrach plaque is frequently hung on the wall in synagogues and homes to indicate this direction. The plaque can often be quite ornate and may include passages from the Torah.
Jews pray facing toward Jerusalem. In Australia this entails facing northwest; however, in lands to the West of the Holy City, the Torah ark is placed towards the east. A mizrach plaque is frequently hung on the wall in synagogues and homes to indicate this direction. The plaque can often be quite ornate and may include passages from the Torah.
Production placeAustralia
Production date circa 1880
Production period19th Century
Object namemizrach
Materialpaper
Dimensions
- height: 910.00 mm
width: 735.00 mm
Language
- Hebrew
Credit lineSydney Jewish Museum Collection, Donated by Rabbi Brian Fox