The Jewish festival of Hanukkah (also spelled Hannuka, and pronounced Chanukkah in Hebrew) is rich in symbols – the dreidel (top), latkes (potato pancakes) and jelly doughnuts. Outshining them all, however, is the Hanukkah menorah (also spelled menora, and known as a Hanukkiah, or Chanukkiah in Hebrew).
There are few images lovelier than the picture of a family gathered around for the traditional, ceremonious lighting of the Hanukkah candles. On the first night of Hanukkah one candle is lit, on the second – two, and so on until on the eighth and final night eight candles shine together, creating an indescribably quaint, soothing glow. Many families use beautifully designed menorahs to add an extra element of class to the age-old tradition, and many homes feature varied collections of menorahs for Sale
Award-winning Israeli artisan, photographer, goldsmith, silversmith and sculptor Shraga Landesman has applied his years of experience and creativity to crafting a stunning menorah which will fit any home and any collection. Named “Landmark”, this design incorporates different potential landmarks of the Holy Land; the Land of Israel. A boomerang-shaped base contains nine holes – eight in a row, on one side, to house the eight Hanukkah candles, and another hole on the other to house the ninth candle – the shamash, which is used to light the other eight and is then displayed with them. Rising from the back left are two tall, thin Cyprus (more commonly known as evergreen or pine) trees. At the back right a bird is perched on a native Israeli Sabra plant. A dome rises in the background, supported by the frame of a building, overlooking the entire scene.
The artist explains that the landmarks he chose were inspired by the simple landmarks marking Kivrei Ttzaddikim, the burial places of holy and righteous Jews, before more modern, commercialized landmarks were erected by the Israeli government in recent decades. The intricate design and extreme care in attention to detail cannot be overlooked. The menorah measures 28x24x10 cm (11.2 x 9.6 x 4 inch).
This original design can be discussed and interpreted at length, making it a perfect piece of Israeli art in addition to a remarkable piece of Israeli Judaica. As a perfect gift on the occasion of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, engagement or anniversary, a perfect Hanukkah gift or as an indispensable item in every Jewish-art collection, this menorah is simply too remarkable to pass up.
