Subject: Jewish art objects

A 20-page pamphlet containing an 1873/74 almanac in both German and Hebrew. Published by H. Sakowski, an importer and dealer in Hebrew books located at 33 Division Street, New York, New York. The pamphlet measures 2.5" x 4".

A 1897 five-cent piece from the United States with a Hebrew inscription of "Chai" (חי), meaning "life" and used as a good luck charm, engraved on one side. A hole has been punched through the coin, presumably for use as an amulet. This object is part of a larger collection of Judaica Americana.

A compendious lexicon of the Hebrew language in two volumes, authored by Clement Clarke Moore. Published in New York by Collins & Perkins in 1809. WorldCat records indicate no copies are currently located in the USA. This work is described as the first of its kind in America, according to Allibone.

Second edition of Volume 2 of Isaac Nordheimer's "A Critical Grammar of the Hebrew Language." Published in New York City in 1842. This work is significant as it represents the contributions of one of the first scientifically trained Jewish scholars in the United States. The first edition was published in 1841.

Second edition of the first Hebrew grammar written by an American-born scholar. Published circa 1810.

An adjustable brass lectern stand, approximately 11.5" long and 9" deep. When flat, it is 3.5" high. The stand features turned legs and an adjustable back with a Star of David and scroll/floral motif. It is composed of eight separate pieces of cast brass, fastened together with machined screws. The stand appears designed to hold a book, for use in giving a speech, or for music. Created circa 1875.

Envelope containing advertisements for Sinai Gepregelte Schmaltz, A. Goodman & Son Matzos (Pittsburgh Square Matzos), and Kraiin's Kosher Baked Beans. The envelope includes a return address of 914.16.18 Lombard Street and is dated circa 1916. The advertisement also references H. L. Caplan.

A six-page pamphlet cataloging the first four publications of the American Jewish Historical Society (AJHS), issued in Washington City, U.S.A., in 1896. The catalog lists the contents of each publication (AJHS Publications Nos. 1-4, 1893-1896), prices, availability, and includes a list of the society's officers, goals, and an excerpt from its constitution. The pamphlet indicates that only a few copies of the first publication remained at the time of its printing. It contains bibliographical references on pages [4-6]. The original paper wrappers measure 19 cm. OCLC lists only one paper copy (held by Indiana University).

A single-page autograph letter written in both German and Yiddish by three different authors. The letter, measuring 9" x 5.25", is written on both sides. The letter is part of a collection containing the only known correspondence to Isaac Leeser from Europe. Historians believe Leeser requested the destruction of his personal letters. Also included in the folder is a fragment of a letter in German.

Silver award of merit badge, two-part. The upper pin is inscribed "WALTER R. HERSCHMAN". The lower part, held by a link, is inscribed "AWARD OF MERIT. TEMPLE AHAWATH CHESED RELIGIOUS SCHOOL. 1892". The reverse side is inscribed "JUNE 5TH". Intricate engraving. Likely from the Central Congregation in NYC, Lexington and 55th. Awarded on June 5, 1892.

A green glass beer bottle with a raised Star of David featuring an "L" in the center. The bottom of the bottle is marked "THE I. LEISY BREWING COMPANY...CLEVELAND...USA". The bottle dates from circa 1910.

This is a copy of the second edition (1859) of the Biblia Hebraica, revising earlier editions by Jos. Athiae, Johannes Leusden, Jo. Simonis, and Everard van der Hoog. Published in Philadelphia by J. B. Lippincott et Soc., this edition was edited by Isaac Leeser. The Latin title is preceded by a Hebrew inscription. The text is in Hebrew and Latin, with an introduction, preface, and notes in Latin. Bound in 1/2 leather with gilt ruling and lettering, marbled boards. Shows minor wear including a small tear at the top of the spine and some shelf wear. The book is tight and clean, with a former owner's name on the flyleaf. It measures over 7 1/2" - 9 1/2" tall and contains xx, 1416 pages.

Bookplate reading "KAAL KADOSH BETH SHALOME...THIS BOOK MUST NOT BE TAKEN OUT OF; THE SYNAGOGUE." Undated bookplate from Beth Shalome Synagogue.

This item is a bookplate featuring a fine engraving of a nude male figure. The bookplate bears the inscription "Ex Libris Siegmund und Helene Baruch." The date of creation is estimated to be around 1910 based on the donor's information.

Bookplate depicting a child with his head on his mother's lap. The bookplate bears the inscription "Ex Libris Siegmund Baruch". The image is described as being from a bookplate, and it is assumed that it is from a book belonging to Siegmund Baruch. Date of creation is assumed to be 1920 based on collection metadata.

Bookplate bearing the inscription "THE HEBREW UNION COLLEGE EX LIBRIS". The bookplate dates from January 1, 1915. It is currently housed in Ms. Coll. 1410, M, Box 6, Folder 32. Geographic location: Cincinnati, Ohio (inferred based on the Hebrew Union College's location).

Bookplate from the Moses Crystal Library of the Young Women's Hebrew Association. A photograph of a bust of Moses Crystal is featured on the plate. Date: circa 1910.

Bookplate from the Moses Crystal Library of the Young Women's Hebrew Association. A photograph of a bust of Moses Crystal is featured on the plate. The date is approximately 1910.

A brass and silver wash platter featuring a primitive depiction of a high priest and a soldier holding the Ten Commandments. Hebrew lettering is inscribed around the rim. The platter is designed to hang. Created circa 1900.

Brass object with a crudely cast Jewish star on top. The object dates to approximately 1800. More details about the object's purpose or origin are unavailable.

This archival item features "Buxford's Hebrew Lexicon." Johannes Buxtorf (1564-1629), a prominent Protestant rabbinical scholar, authored this lexicon. His work significantly contributed to Hebrew literature and studies within Christian circles. The description highlights Buxtorf's connections with numerous Jewish scholars. Published in 1615.

Cabinet photograph of a silver Torah breastplate, taken by Martin & Son, 245 Commercial Rd., London, England, circa 1885. The photograph was sent to Rabbi Sabato Morais of Mikveh Israel Synagogue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as part of a set of nine photographs, a drawing, and an envelope. Handwritten notes on the back of the photograph indicate the weight and price of the breastplate, suggesting it was part of a sales inquiry.

Cabinet photograph depicting a silver Torah crown, taken by Martin & Son of London, England, circa 1885. The photograph was sent to Rabbi Sabato Morais of Mikveh Israel Synagogue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, possibly as part of a sales inquiry. This is one of nine cabinet photographs, a drawing, and an envelope included in the collection. The photographs may depict new English ritual objects or earlier Continental pieces.

Cabinet photograph depicting silver finials for a Torah, taken by Martin & Son of London, England, circa 1885. The photograph was sent to Rabbi Sabato Morais of Mikveh Israel Synagogue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as part of a set of nine photographs, a drawing and an envelope, possibly related to an inquiry to purchase ritual objects. Handwritten on the back is "NO. 3".

Cabinet photograph depicting silver finials for a Torah, offered for sale by Martin & Son, 245 Commercial Road, London, England. The photograph, part of a set of nine, includes handwritten notes on the back indicating item number, weight (70), and price (£1.1 per ounce). The set was sent circa 1885 to Rabbi Sabato Morais of Mikveh Israel Synagogue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, likely as part of an inquiry to purchase ritual objects.

Cabinet photograph depicting silver finials for a Torah, likely taken by Martin & Son of London, England, circa 1885. The photograph, part of a collection sent to Rabbi Sabato Morais of Mikveh Israel Synagogue in Philadelphia, includes handwritten notations indicating weight and price in pounds sterling. The photograph suggests a potential inquiry for purchase.

Cabinet photograph depicting silver finials for a Torah. The photograph, taken by Martin & Son of 245 Commercial Road, London, was sent to Rabbi Sabato Morais of Mikveh Israel Synagogue in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, circa 1885. Handwritten information on the back indicates the item's number, weight (33), and price (24 pounds). This is one of nine cabinet photographs, a drawing, and an envelope forming part of a larger correspondence.

This book is a catalogue of the Hebrew and Judaica books held in the library of the Corporation of the City of London, published in 1891. It represents a snapshot of the collection's holdings at that time and is likely valuable for researchers studying the history of Jewish studies and libraries in London. The catalogue is presented as a presentation copy, suggesting it may have been a gift or special edition.

A colored cardboard puzzle depicting a Seder scene, with text in Hebrew and English. The image is printed on both sides. The puzzle consists of two identical pieces. Created circa 1950.

Financial record related to $500, 6% Gold Bonds issued by Congregation Anshe Emes, located at 3760 Pine Grove Avenue. The document shows signs of a default in January 1931, during the Great Depression. It includes numerous signatures and uncashed coupons dating back to 1931.

A copper bust stamp featuring the birth and death date of Henrietta Szold (1945). The donor states that this item is one of five pieces obtained from a defunct stamping factory.

Das Buch Tobias, featuring 27 black and white illustrations. Published by Jüdische Buchvereinigung in 1937. The text is from the Bible.

A manuscript draft of a sermon written in English and Hebrew. The author is unknown, but the document was found among papers associated with Isaac Leeser. The manuscript dates from the mid-to-late 1800s.

Book - Haggadah...."FORM OF SERVICE FOR THE TWO FIRST NIGHTS OF OF THE FEAST OF; PASSOVER WITH ENGLISH TRANSLATION"... NEW ILLUSTRATED EDITION; H. SALOLSKI, 53 DIVISION STREET..1880; INSCRIBED TO MARCUS FRIEDMAN ..AGE 11 ..3/29/1882..FORT WORTH; 1880 / 1859...note does not have date in Hebrew as do the later copies

A greeting card in its original box, labeled "WILLIAMSBURG LINE H.N.Y. NO. 902." Features a large heart mounted on a red ribbon and violet board, with Hebrew greetings in sparkles. A gold dove and cloth flowers are attached to the heart, along with a small card containing an English message. The card dates from circa 1900, based on the donor's information. The card's origin is New York.

Broadside depicting the Hebrew alphabet. Printed in New York in 1834 by Solomon H. Jackson for James Seixas. Measures 40 x 34 cm. Shows folds and creases with some loss to the margins. This is the only known copy.

A Hebrew-language book published in New York City by the Hebrew Publishing Company, located at 83-87 Canal Street, circa 1912. The book features early woodblock prints and was found in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The book is written in Hebrew.

A Hebrew pocket calendar for the year 1916. The calendar is unused and has a cloth/cardboard cover. The calendar's physical condition suggests it was likely a personal item.

A Hebrew publication printed in New York City by the Hebrew Publishing Company, located at 83-85-87 Canal Street. The publication features early woodblock prints. This item was found in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The publication date is estimated to be around 1910.

A Hebrew publication printed in New York City by the Hebrew Publishing Company, located at 83-85-87 Canal Street, circa 1910. The book features early wood block prints. This copy was found in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Published by the Hebrew Publishing Company, located at 122-128 Leonard Street, New York City. Publication date is estimated to be January 1, 1902, based on metadata provided. Further details about the content and nature of the publication are not available.

A woman's gold-filled pocket watch manufactured by the Illinois Watch Company. The watch features a distinctive design incorporating three nested Star of David symbols. The watch dates from circa 1880.

A twelve-page manuscript copybook (19.5 cm x 21 cm) predominantly written in German, with a single phrase in block Hebrew. Written on both sides of each page except the last. The manuscript lacks a cover. Most entries conclude with "Amen." Written by Isaac Leeser, this copybook is believed to date from his early years in America (circa 1825-1830), though further research is needed to verify the exact date and to determine if the manuscript was brought from Europe. Found among other Leeser papers. Reviewed and verified by Dr. Arthur Kiron and Bruce Nielsen at the University of Pennsylvania's Katz Center.

Silver Kiddush cup engraved with "Temple Beth Shirah." American coin silver, circa 1850-1860. The cup's inscription is the only known reference to this congregation.

This archival item is a letter written by A. Roget to Isaac Leeser on January 16, 1867, in Baltimore, Maryland. The letter discusses a subscription to a publication, Roget apologizes for not settling an account and requests that the subscription be stopped due to his inability to read back issues. This letter is item #5 of a set of 9 letters.

A letter written by C. H. Meyer to Isaac Leeser on August 14, 1852, in San Francisco, California. The letter discusses books.

This archival item is a letter dated February 16, 1863, from Greenewald & Kohlberg, located at 110 North 3rd Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Reverend Isaac Leeser at 1227 Walnut Street. The letter concerns a request to obtain a set of unspecified books with an English translation and a Bible. The authors offer to show samples to Reverend Leeser at their place of business. This letter is #3 of 9 in a larger collection.

Letter written by I.I. Cohen from Rome, NY (?), dated May 17, 1857, to Isaac Leeser. Cohen inquires about a potential debt, referencing a gift of a copy of *The Occident* to Mrs. Cohen.

Letter written by J. Cohn in New York, New York on April 28, 1851, to Isaac Leeser. Cohn orders a book and requests that it be sent to Mr. Seixas.

A letter written by Joshua I. Cohen in Baltimore, Maryland on June 10, 1851. The letter pertains to the collection of American documents. Cohen co-founded an eye and ear clinic in Baltimore in 1840 with Dr. Chew and was also a professor of mineralogy. His library of Hebraica and Judaica was donated to Dropsie College in 1915.

A letter dated October 25, 1848, from L. Elias (per P.S. Jacobs) in Columbia, South Carolina, to Jacobs & Meyer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The letter discusses a request for Torah portion books ("Parasha books") and a discrepancy in a prior merchandise bill. The letter also mentions business dealings and financial matters.

A letter dated February 25, 1849, from M.N. Daurt to Isaac Leeser, discussing the sale of prayer books and other incidents. The letter was written in Curaçao, Dutch West Indies, and concerns events in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

This archival item consists of a three-page letter dated April 11, 1849, from the New York firm Solomon & Hart to Reverend Isaac Leeser in Philadelphia. The letter details an order for silk and damask materials for the Torah, bimah, and Ark decorations of Leeser's synagogue. The correspondence specifies quantities and types of fabrics, including blue and white satin, crimson and gold brocatelle, and crimson damask. It also discusses the return of excess materials and pricing for similar fabrics.

Three single-page letters dated July 11, 1849, from Solomon & Hart to Reverend Isaac Leeser. The letters discuss an order for silk and damask materials for Torah, bimah, and Ark decorations for a synagogue. The correspondence details the quantities, qualities, and colors of the fabrics ordered, including blue and white satin, crimson and gold brocatelle, and crimson damask. The letters also mention the possibility of returning some materials if they are unsatisfactory. One letter includes a wax seal and a red postmark dated "NEW YORK 11 JULY 5 cts.".

This archival item consists of a three-page letter dated April 16, 1849, from the firm Solomon & Hart to Isaac Leeser. The letter details an order for various silks and damasks to be used in decorating the Torah, bimah, and ark of a synagogue. Specific materials mentioned include blue and white satin, crimson and gold brocatelle, and crimson damask. The letter discusses quantities, prices, and potential returns of unsatisfactory materials. The letter is written from 243 Broadway, New York.

One-page letter from W. B. Simmons in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, to Isaac Leeser in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, dated February 3, 1848. Simmons discusses ordering matzos and themurim from James Henry in New York City and the sale of Leeser's books. A postscript mentions Charleston's interest in obtaining books.

This manuscript, written by Isaac Leeser, is an 8" x 6" page in English and Hebrew. Leeser notes that he found the Hebrew text in 1806 within a manuscript in the possession of the Rabbi of Berlin, dating back to the 16th century. The Hebrew text itself is in fine block letters with points and contains the year 5601 (1841), marking the beginning of a new 28-year Hebrew solar cycle. The significance of this date in relation to the manuscript's content requires further investigation. The manuscript was found among other Leeser papers and has been reviewed by Dr. Arthur Kiron and Bruce Nielsen at the Katz Center, University of Pennsylvania.

A 5.5 x 6 inch manuscript note on anti-Semitic scholars and their errors. Part of the note may have been copied from an article. The note appears complete and was likely kept for reference. It may have been an insert from a letter to Isaac Leeser on the subject, as it was found with other Leeser papers. The note is not in Leeser's handwriting. This document has been reviewed and verified at the Katz Center of the University of Pennsylvania by Dr. Arthur Kiron, the Schottenstein-Jesselson Curator of Judaica Collections and Bruce Nielsen, Judaica Public Services Librarian and Archivist, who is a trained paleographer.

Miniature brass spice box, oval-shaped, measuring 1-3/4"L x 1-1/2"W. Found in Eastern Pennsylvania. The outer lid is engraved with a Hebrew prayer. A paper with a Hebrew prayer is affixed to the inside of the lid. The inner lid is engraved with a Star of David and is pierced. The bottom features a floral motif. Sotheby's determined that this piece is an earlier European snuff box that was converted to its current use circa 1860.

Miniature molded glass bottle featuring a Jewish star and the letter "H" in the center. Circa 1885. Found in Ms. Coll. 1410, OOS, Box 4.

A simple Mizrach depicting Solomon's Temple. The date of creation is unknown. The creator is unknown. Geographic location is unknown.

Large fold-out three-dimensional (3-D) greeting card depicting a ship with King David playing his harp. Printed in Germany for the U.S. market. The card features the greeting "A Happy New Year" in both English and Hebrew. The card's printing date is unknown, but the card is presumed to date from the early 20th century based on the printing style and subject matter.

An 1839 U.S. silver half dollar engraved as a Pidyon Haben coin. The coin is inscribed with "Aaron son of Moshe" and the date 1850 on both sides. Found in New York State.

Postal receipt for scrolls of law sent by Solomon Elmaleh on May 27, 1900 from 2226 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The receipt includes Gibraltar postage stamps.

Collection of two pre-Civil War playing card tokens. The Queen of Diamonds token features the address 236 South 36th St., Phila., while the Jack of Clubs token shows the address No. 1 Barclay St., NYC. The tokens also mention Isaac Levy and Lewis I. Cohen, whose businesses merged in 1871. The tokens are made of brass. Date of creation is estimated to be around 1850 based on the context.

Collection of two pre-Civil War Judaica playing card tokens. The Queen of Diamonds token features the address "236 SOUTH 36TH ST., PHILA." and the Jack of Clubs token displays "NO. 1 BARCLAY ST., NYC." Additional inscriptions mention "COUSIN OF ISAAC LEVY/NEPHEW OF LEWIS I. COHEN," indicating a potential family connection, and note a merger in 1871. The tokens are described as being made of silver plate. The tokens date from before the Civil War (1861-1865), with a tentative date provided as January 1, 1850.

Two pre-Civil War playing card tokens: a Queen of Diamonds and a Jack of Clubs. The Queen of Diamonds token is marked "236 SOUTH 36TH ST., PHILA." and the Jack of Clubs is marked "NO. 1 BARCLAY ST., NYC." Additional inscriptions indicate a connection to Isaac Levy and Lewis I. Cohen, whose businesses merged in 1871. The tokens are described as being made of silvered brass. Accompanying text provides details about the Philadelphia card manufacturing industry in 1857, specifically mentioning Samuel Hart & Co. and their extensive factory and production methods.

Coin silver baby cup presented to Isaac Foorman on November 20, 1860. The cup features a presentation monogram: "Isaac Foorman 20th Nov 1860". Its significance lies in its status as early California Judaica and early California silver. Isaac Foorman's parents were Simon "Samuel" Foorman and Helena Foorman (Neuberger). Isaac Foorman's death is recorded as occurring in 1923. The Foorman family's history is connected to West Calaveras, California, and San Mateo, California. The cup is marked "Coin Silver" and "S.F. Cal." but lacks a maker's mark. It weighs 115 grams and features excellent decorative design. The cup is in nice overall condition.

A pamphlet containing questions and answers in both English and Yiddish. The exact date of publication is unknown; however, based on contextual information, the publication date is estimated to be around 1900. The pamphlet was found in Ms. Coll. 1410, Box 8, Folder 16.

This is the second catalogue from M. Ellinger & Co., a New York City importer of foreign, ancient, and modern books, published in 1858. The 48-page catalogue lists over 1500 items, spanning the 16th through 19th centuries, with a significant section (pages 7-13) dedicated to books with Jewish content. Much of the descriptive text is in German and Latin. This catalogue is considered rare; this copy is noted as the only one located.

Silver and champlevé enamel figural (bird) scent bottle with wings of carnelian that open and are inscribed in Hebrew. Under one wing is a silver lion and under the other is a piece of spice in glass. It is believed this was used for Havdalah service. Circa 1885.

Silver presentation bowl given as a wedding gift to Julia Tandler from Congregation Emanu-El on October 13, 1862. The bowl, hallmarked "Braverman & Levy" of San Francisco, California, measures 7 5/8" long and features ball feet. It was originally a ladle that was converted into a bowl. Abraham Tandler, possibly Julia's father, was on the first committee to study the reform of Congregation Emanu-El services in July 1860 and was one of the incorporators of Adas Israel in Louisville, Kentucky in 1842. Julia Tandler was born on April 3, 1841, in Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky and married Joseph Block on October 13, 1862.

Silver wine cup presented to Miss Henrietta Straus by the Trustees of K.K.B.F. (likely a synagogue). The inscription is partially illegible. The cup is a piece of Judaica Americana, reflecting the history of the Straus family, prominent Jewish American entrepreneurs. The object's date is unknown but is associated with the Straus family's activities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Stained glass window used for the final execution, created by J. M. Case & Co. Located in Rabbi Wirman's study at Temple Oheb Sholom in Reading, Pennsylvania. The window was created circa 1930 and bears the number #113054.

Stereoscopic photograph of the Touro Synagogue in Newport, Rhode Island. The photograph is dated circa 1860. It is part of a larger collection of Judaica Americana.

Manuscript study note on the translation of Aramean. The note measures 8" x 5" and contains several complete sentences on the verso, written in a very small script. It begins: "The Chaldaic dialect has a (?) close to the Syriac; hence they are both frequently referred to under the common name Aramean." The note includes tables comparing script and further commentary. It is not in the handwriting of Isaac Leeser; it may be an insert from a letter to Leeser on the subject. Found with other Leeser papers. This document has been reviewed and verified at the Katz Center of the University of Pennsylvania by Dr. Arthur Kiron, the Schottenstein-Jesselson Curator of Judaica Collections, and Bruce Nielsen, Judaica Public Services Librarian and Archivist, who is a trained paleographer.

Cardboard sheet with 32 movable metal arrows in circular dials for recording synagogue donations. The arrows indicate letters, numbers, holidays, and Torah portions to register donor names, addresses, donation amounts, and pledge times. Includes copyright inscriptions in Yiddish and English: "Copyright by M. Cohen 1913", "Patented in Washington by Moshe Cohen." Published in the U.S.A., circa 1913. 28.5 x 24 cm.

Book titled "The Messiah, attempted from the German of Mr. Klopstock," printed by George Forman for Benjamin Gomez in 1795. Benjamin Gomez (1769-1828) was a prominent Jewish bookseller in New York, the first of his kind. He published over 20 titles, including works of Jewish interest such as the first American printing of Letters to Dr. [Joseph] Priestley. He was involved in publishing, selling, and binding books until 1802, later becoming treasurer and president of Shearith Israel, the first synagogue in New York City.

This 14-page pamphlet, "The Shofar," was published by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. in 1894. Authored by Cyrus Adler, it features illustrations and likely discusses the shofar, a ram's horn used in Jewish religious ceremonies, its history, and significance.

Three Selzer bottles featuring etched Jewish motifs. The bottles date from circa 1910. The exact manufacturer and location of manufacture are unknown.

Large fold-out three-dimensional pop-up card depicting a ship with a rabbi and his scroll. Printed in Germany for the U.S. market. The printing includes the phrase "A Happy New Year" in English and Hebrew. The card's approximate date is 1900 based on the metadata.

A woman's 14K gold Elgin watch featuring a Star of David and dove of peace motif. The watch was likely manufactured by the Elgin National Watch Company, circa 1906. The watch is part of the Kaplan Family Collection.