Jewish calligraphic mourning certificate

Collection — Box: 1

Identifier: MS-0787

Staff Only

Content Description

Rewritten from dealer description:

A hand-drawn and illuminated Jewish mourning certificate or broadside illustrated and written by P.L. Weinstein of Baltimore, Maryland in the 1880s or 1890s. Weinstein incorporated images of flowers, European goldfinches, and candlesticks surrounding a tombstone into their design. Hebrew letters are written within the illustrated tombstone and elsewhere on the item. At the top of the item, “In Loving Memory of Our Dear Father” is written in English. As an object of filial piety, the certificate appears to have been made for a son to honor the memory of his father, David Zelig, born in 1840. The item measures 43 x 31 cm and is an example of late nineteenth century American Jewish folk art.

Dates

Creation: 1880s-1890s

Creator

Weinstein, P. L. (Calligrapher, Person)
Weinstein, P. L. (Person)

Language of Materials

This item contains text in both Hebrew and English.

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is located at the George Peabody Library and may require scheduling a special appointment to access it. Contact Special Collections for more information.

Collection is open for use.

Conditions Governing Use

Single copies may be made for research purposes. Researchers are responsible for determining any copyright questions. It is not necessary to seek our permission as the owner of the physical work to publish or otherwise use public domain materials that we have made available for use, unless Johns Hopkins University holds the copyright.

Biographical / Historical

This item was created by P.L. Weinstein, of 107 West Mill Street, Baltimore, Maryland, who was likely a professional calligrapher and illuminator. It appears this person was active during the 1880s and 1890s. There is currently no biographical information available on David Zelig.

Extent

0.31 Cubic Feet (21 x 1.5 x 17 (1 oversize flat box))

Additional Description

Abstract

This item is a hand-drawn and illuminated Jewish mourning certificate, created by P.L. Weinstein in the 1880s or 1890s. The certificate appears to have been made on behalf of a son in honor of his late father, David Zelig. The creator, P.L. Weinstein of Baltimore, was possibly a professional calligrapher and illuminator.