Torah Ark
Torah Ark from Adath Yeshurun Synagogue
Abraham Shulkin (American, b. Russia, 1852-1918)Sioux City, Iowa, United States, 1899
- Pinewood: hand-carved, openwork, stained, and painted
- 125 x 96 x 30 in. (317.5 x 243.8 x 76.2 cm)
- The Jewish Museum, New York
- Gift of the Jewish Federation of Sioux City, JM 48-56a-s
On view
Torah Ark
Torah Ark from Adath Yeshurun Synagogue
Torah Ark from Adath Yeshurun Synagogue
Listen
- What materials were used to make this object? How do you think it was made? How do you think it feels to the touch?
- What do you think this object was used for? What parts of the object make you think this? Does it remind you of anything you have seen before?
- What designs do you see on this ark? What do you think they mean?
FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION:
After giving students ample opportunity to look closely at this work of art, lead them in a discussion of related topics and themes:
- Why do you think people create elaborate arks and decorations for the Torah?
- Can you think of any ways that rituals in your life are enhanced by the use of special or beautiful objects?