Ludwig Yehuda Wolpert Modernist Silver Hebrew Mezuzah Case, New York, 1970s

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Ludwig Yehuda Wolpert Modernist Silver Hebrew Mezuzah Case, New York, 1970s:
$2700.00

An elegant expression of twentieth-century Modernist Judaica, this sterling silver mezuzah case was created by the celebrated Jewish designer and silversmith Ludwig Yehuda Wolpert (1900–1981) in New York, circa the 1970s. The piece exemplifies Wolpert’s distinctive approach to ceremonial art, in which Hebrew lettering, clean geometry, and restrained ornament become the principal elements of the design.The gently curved rectangular case features a striking openwork façade pierced with the Hebrew inscription:"ברוך אתה בבאך וברוך אתה בצאתך"“Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.”— Deuteronomy 28:6Especially appropriate for a mezuzah placed upon a doorway, the biblical blessing is transformed into the decorative architecture of the object itself. The bold, angular Hebrew characters are arranged vertically against a darkened recessed ground, producing a dramatic contrast between the polished silver lettering and the interior. Narrow horizontal openings at the upper and lower ends complete the balanced Modernist composition.The reverse is deliberately simple and functional, with openings for mounting and a recessed interior intended to accommodate the mezuzah parchment (klaf). It is stamped “WOLPERT” together with the maker’s characteristic three-circle mark.Ludwig Yehuda Wolpert was born in Hildesheim, Germany, in 1900 and trained in sculpture and metalsmithing before becoming one of the pioneering figures of modern Judaica. After working in Jerusalem, he settled in the United States and became closely associated with The Jewish Museum in New York, where he headed the Tobe Pascher Workshop from 1956 until his death in 1981.Wolpert revolutionized twentieth-century Jewish ceremonial art by rejecting excessive historical ornament in favor of functional forms, geometric simplicity, and Hebrew typography integrated directly into the design. His works are represented in important museum and private collections and remain among the most recognizable examples of mid-century and Modernist Judaica.Marked on the inside of the case by the artist.1.13ozt

Creator: Ludwig Yehuda Wolpert (Artist)
Dimensions: Height: 2.76 in (7 cm)Width: 1.11 in (2.8 cm)Depth: 0.28 in (7 mm)
Materials and Techniques: Silver
Place of Origin: United States
Period: 1970-1979
Date of Manufacture: 1970s