Name/Title
Shabbat Challah Cover- Binyamina SilvermanEntry/Object ID
CMO# 2004.10Description
This oval-shaped challah cover, created by Binyamina Silverman, is divided into distinct horizontal sections, each relating to the theme of challah and Shabbat. Stylized Hebrew text is present along the top and bottom of the work reading:"הָמוֹציא לֶחם מן הַארץ" or "The one who brings forth bread from the Earth," part of the HaMotzi prayer over bread.
Bottom Section: Depicts a stylized field with embroidered wheat stalks in shades of green and gold. The ground is represented by brown and ochre stitches, suggesting earth. Intertwined Hebrew text in the shape of flames are rendered in white and shades of brown, rise from the earth, potentially symbolizing the oven used to bake the challah.
Middle Section: Features two meticulously embroidered loaves of braided challah bread. The upper loaf is smaller and rendered in lighter shades of gold and brown, while the lower loaf is larger and more detailed, showcasing a richer, deeper golden hue. The intricate stitching captures the texture and form of the braided bread.
Top Section: Displays stylized Hebrew text that appear flame-like in white and pale blue, rising upwards.
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The artwork is framed by a narrow border of pink and cream stitching. The embroidery is executed with a variety of stitches, creating a textured surface. The piece appears to be padded, giving it a slightly raised, dimensional quality.Context
This challah cover was created by Binyamina Silverman, a 26-year old fiber artist who's life ended tragically early.Collection
TTTIInscription/Signature/Marks
Transcription
הָמוֹציא לֶחם מן הַארץLanguage
HebrewTranslation
The one who brings forth bread from the EarthMaterial/Technique
embroidered silkInterpretative Labels
Label Type
Object LabelLabel
Shabbat challah cover
Binyamina Silverman
United States
c.1980
Silk; pearl cotton and cotton floss embroidery
Gift of the Sanford S. Silverman family 2004.10
Challah is the bread eaten on Shabbat and festivals other than Passover. After lighting the candles and reciting the blessing over wine, a prayer is recited recognizing that it is God "who brings forth bread from the earth."