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A Vintage Marwal Chalkware Rabbi Sculpture, New York, Circa 1960s
About the Item
A charming and expressive vintage sculpture by Marwal Industries, this piece was created in New York during the 1960s, and is a fine example of chalkware Judaica—sculptures made from Hydrastone, a blend of plaster of Paris and gypsum. Chalkware, sometimes referred to as “the poor man’s porcelain,” was widely appreciated for its ability to bring warmth and affordability to decorative art.
The sculpture depicts a Jewish rabbi in mid-study, deeply engaged in reading a book held gently in both hands. His facial features are finely modeled, with a thoughtful expression, prominent brows, and a high forehead. He has a full gray-black beard with subtle streaks of white and neatly combed side curls (payot) flanking his face. His balding head is topped by a traditional black kippah, highlighting his piety.
The rabbi is dressed in a long black robe, which reaches the floor, and is partially visible under his cream-colored tallit (prayer shawl). The tallit is richly textured and draped elegantly over both shoulders and down the front of the body. Its edges are adorned with painted black ladder-like stripes, resembling the traditional decorative bands (atarah) often found on prayer shawls.
The overall finish of the sculpture has a warm, hand-painted patina. The rabbi stands on a rectangular brown base, slightly marbled in tone, providing grounding and contrast to the otherwise neutral and somber palette of the figure. The careful coloration, thoughtful posture, and emotional presence of the piece reflect both the skill of the Marwal craftsmen and the reverence for Jewish tradition and learning.
This sculpture is a nostalgic representation of mid-20th-century American Judaica—a collectible that captures a poignant moment of spiritual devotion with expressive detail and cultural dignity.
- Dimensions:Height: 13.39 in (34 cm)Width: 5.12 in (13 cm)Depth: 4.34 in (11 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1960's
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:New York, NY
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5281245094562
About the Seller
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