A "pop-up" engraving (diorama) depicting the inauguration of the Portuguese Synagogue in Amsterdam.

[Martin Engelbrecht, Augsburg, ca. 1730]. Very Rare.

A unique "pop-up" engraving, colored by hand, depicting the inauguration event of the Spanish-Portuguese Synagogue in Amsterdam (inaugurated in 1675); most probably the engraving was created by I. Wachsmuht.

This diorama is made of four layers [out of the six printed]: each layer consists of an engraving (apparently the engravings were printed especially for this diorama), mounted on a cardboard sheet. 

In the first layer appear the title "Temple des Juifs / Juden Synagoge" and some of the congregation members – men, women and children – while a Torah is removed from the ark.


Seen in the second layer are worshipers with Tallit on their heads;

The third layer portrays the "Bimah", the cantor and a group of worshipers praying.

The fourth layer depicts a group of worshipers dressed elegantly, drinking wine, and by them another Torah Scroll.

Good overall condition. Lacking several small pieces.


Similar pop-up exhibited: Sanctuary & Synagogue, The Experience of the Portuguese and Ashkenazic Jews in Amsterdam, JTS library, New York, October 1998- January 1999.

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Lot #186

Unique Three Dimensional "Pop-up" Engraving - Diorama of the Portuguese Synagogue in Amsterdam

Start price: $500

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