Antique Bezalel Jerusalem Copper Relief Plaque Western Wall Mandate Palestine C. 1920s Judaica

Details

Description

A superb early 20th-century repoussé copper relief plaque from the renowned Bezalel School of Arts and Crafts. This piece depicts … Read more A superb early 20th-century repoussé copper relief plaque from the renowned Bezalel School of Arts and Crafts. This piece depicts a poignant scene of Jewish elders in prayer at the Western Wall (Kotel) in Jerusalem. This plaque represents the "New Jewish Art" movement, blending traditional craftsmanship with Zionist iconography.

Item Specifics:
Origin: Bezalel School of Arts and Crafts, Jerusalem (British Mandate Palestine)

Age: Circa 1920–1930

Material: Hammered and pressed copper with a rich, dark original patina. Mounted onto its authentic, original solid hardwood board with decorative domed copper/brass rivets

Highlighting the Backing: Unlike many later mid-century examples or lesser-quality reproductions that utilize painted black wood or composite materials, this plaque retains its original high-grade hardwood mount. The natural grain and finish remain in excellent condition, preserving the piece as it was intended to be displayed during the Mandate period.

Markings: Dual-stamped for authenticity. Lower left: "MADE IN PALESTINE / JERUSALEM." Lower right: Hebrew Bezalel signature "בצלאל ירושלם." The reverse bears an original hand-written pattern or inventory "No. 2."

Dimensions: Approximately 8.5" x 5.75" x 1".

Reference
Source: Bezalel: 1906–1929, edited by Nurit Shilo-Cohen, The Israel Museum, Jerusalem (1983). Reference: Discussion on the production of repoussé copper plaques and the thematic focus on Jerusalem’s holy sites can be found on pages 232–235. This specific Western Wall motif is a classic example of the school’s metalwork department during the Schatz era. See less