Masterworks of the Jewish Museum

Published on the hundredth anniversary of The Jewish Museum, this magnificent book explores the culture, history, and beliefs of the Jewish people by presenting an extraordinary selection of works from the Museum’s renowned collection

This beautifully illustrated book explores the culture, history, and beliefs of the Jewish people by presenting an extraordinary selection of works from the collection of The Jewish Museum, New York. Ranging from antiquity to the present day, these artworks and ritual objects include a fourth-century glass vessel and ancient burial plaques; exquisite Torah decorations and marriage contracts; stunningly ornate Hanukkah lamps and spice containers; beautiful paintings and prints by such artists as Moritz Daniel Oppenheim, Marc Chagall, and Ben Shahn; striking contemporary works by Leonard Baskin, Sol LeWitt, George Segal, Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, and many others; and selections of video and still images from television and film, ranging from documentaries and dramas to situation comedies.

Two introductory essays discuss the history and significance of The Jewish Museum, followed by a superb range of artworks grouped thematically in categories such as memory and history; spirituality and faith; society, politics, and community; text and representation; and television and culture. Each work is accompanied by a short essay providing description and interpretation. Together the reproductions and lively text tell the fascinating story of how Jewish culture has evolved through the centuries and across continents.

Maurice Berger is Research Professor at the Center for Art, Design and Visual Culture, UMBC; Joan Rosenbaum is the Helen Goldsmith Menschel Director at The Jewish Museum; Vivian B. Mann is the Morris and Eva Feld Chair in Judaica at The Jewish Museum; and Norman L. Kleeblatt is the Susan and Elihu Rose Curator of Fine Arts at The Jewish Museum.