Double Eagle of HaShem – Wooden Synagogue Illustration

Description

This dense, symbolism-packed illustration is based on the paintings inside the wooden synagogues of 17th/18th century Polish-Lithuanian commonwealth. Of course, a wooden building is easy to destroy, so only replicas of the magnificent paintings exist in real life, with some black and white photos from the day also serving as a record.

The double eagle motif is common as a national symbol in Eastern Europe, and it took on a Jewish meaning as God’s description as an eagle protecting her young (from the Hebrew at top):

“Like an eagle who rouses its nestlings/Gliding down to its young/So did [God] spread her wings and take them/Bear them along on her pinions” (Deuteronomy 32:11)

Note that the eagle carries rabbits. Ordinarily they’re the prey of eagles, but here they are carried gently, alive. The Jewish people are vulnerable and in need of protection, and very much trusting in a being that could easily destroy them at a whim but instead chooses to protect and nurture them. A crown is at the top center, with B”H (b’ezrat HaShem, “with the help of God”) making up the middle part. In a National Symbol context, the crown represented the government, but in a shul represents the Sovereign of the Universe. At the center is an altered version of my “Ner Tamid” image – I’ve changed the typeface to match that of the wooden synagogues. “Mir Veiln Zie Iberleiben” (“We will outlive them”) and “tzedek tzedek tirdof” (“Justice justice you shall pursue”) ring the circle. How meaningful that phrase is, considering this artform was almost wiped out. Between the two heads, a motif emulates the Aron HaKodesh, where the Torahs are kept (hence “Eitz Chayim” at the center in the shape of a door). in the tops of each arch, BS”D is written across (“With Heaven’s Help”). When you combine the middle, top, and eagle heads, you see the shape of a Hamsa – another protective Jewish symbol.

In addition to using colors authentic to wooden synagogue art, I’ve added a wood grain texture to give the appearance of being painted on. Hang it in your own space to bring a piece of this vibrant Jewish culture from ancient walls to yours.
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Museum-quality posters made on thick and durable matte paper. Add a wonderful accent to your room and office with these posters that are sure to brighten any environment.

• Paper thickness: 10.3 mil
• Measures 12″ x 16″
• Paper weight: 5.57 oz/y² (189 g/m²)
• Giclée printing quality
• Opacity: 94%
• ISO brightness: 104%