A Decorative Synagogue Plaque indicating the Times of Prayer, Hermannstadt (Sibiu, Romania), 1878 Artist: Abraham Pavian

multi-colored paint on paper with metal dials set in a wood and glass frame.

height 16 in.; width 22 in.

40.6 cm; 55.9 cm

The town of Hermannstadt, currently known as Sibiu, is an important cultural center of Romania. The Jewish community of Sibiu, however, was formally established only after the civil emancipation of 1867. Abraham Pavian, the shamas in the synagogue of Sibiu, painted this boldly colored plaque so that the worshippers would know the times of services. It was created in 1878, the same year that the first synagogue was built in Sibiu. The five manual clocks designate the times of the daily morning and afternoon prayer service as well as the times of the services for the Sabbath prayers.  The Hebrew inscription around the border, comprised of verses from the book of Psalms (88:13-17), alludes to the morning prayers.

Framed. Not examined outside of frame.