Torah shield

Torah shields—also known as breastplates—are ornamental metal plates hung with chains in front of the Torah scroll. This is one of the finest examples in existence. At a mere 8 inches high, and boasting a rich array of decorative materials and techniques, this piece would have presumably been made to be enjoyed by a sophisticated private patron, rather than to be seen by a large congregation, and at a distance, in synagogue.

Unusually for a Torah shield, this object is lavishly decorated both on the front and on the back. On one side, the traditional iconography of the Tablets of the Law, surmounted by the crown (representing the Torah) and flanked by the figures of Moses and Aaron, is enriched by an intricate, silver-gilt pierced “screen” laid on a solid silver sheet. In the thick, exuberant scrollwork of the pierced layer, hide fantastical animals with leafy tails—such as dragons, reptiles, and, in the center, sea creatures seemingly munching on the Decalogue.

In addition to demonstrating his skill in the handling of pierced silver, the artist shows his ability in creating volume, seen in the high relief of both the two figures and, above them, the large baskets spilling with flowers and fruits. Moreover, the maker’s confidence in a range of materials and techniques is shown in the use of enamel on Aaron’s breastplate, stones for the Torah crown, and the niello inscriptions on the Tablets of the Law.

The decorated back sets this shield apart. Breastplates were almost never decorated on the back, and certainly never with narrative scenes. Here the superbly executed engravings feature a central scene depicting Isaac blessing Jacob, encased within a spectacular high Rococo arched frame, topped by the scene of the binding of Isaac. The quality of the engraving is simply outstanding, far closer to copper plate printed engravings than to metalwork. On the bottom of the back panel, the maker engraved the following Hebrew words: “This is the work of my hands, Elimelekh Tzoref of Stanislav, in the year 1782.”