ReuvenRubinIsraeli1893-1974Crowning of the Torahoil on canvas1968-1969, signed lower left32 x 29 in. (81.3 x 73.7 cm.), Frame: 41 x 37 3/4 in. (104.1 x 95.9 cm.)Provenance: The Hertz Estate, Beverly Hills CA; The Collection of Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Fisher, Bridgeton, N.J.; Authenticity confirmed by Ms. Carmela Rubin, Rubin Museum, Tel-Aviv, Literature: Reuven Rubin by Sarah Wilkinson (illustrated in color, p. 263.) Notes: This item does not qualify for in-house shipping. Please see our preferred shippers' list for quotes or arrange for local pickup. https://www.abell.com/buy-sell/how-to-ship/ "One of Rubin?s most profound and iconic works, Crowning of the Torah captures the spiritual essence and cultural soul of the Jewish people. Here, Rubin elevates a traditional moment?the ceremonial crowning of the Torah?into a scene of mystical reverence and national symbolism. The central figure, cloaked in flowing robes and crowned with a red shtreimel, holds the Torah with an almost supernatural tenderness, while others gather in quiet awe, their eyes closed in devotion. With its softly glowing palette, ethereal composition, and expressive brushwork, this painting exemplifies Rubin?s unique synthesis of Eastern European expressionism and emerging Israeli light. The figures seem to drift between worlds, grounded in ritual yet lifted by spiritual transcendence?a hallmark of Rubin?s mature style. More than a religious scene, Crowning of the Torah is a statement of identity and continuity. Painted during a pivotal era in the formation of Israeli culture, the work reflects Rubin?s mission to forge a modern Hebrew visual language?one that could unite diaspora memory with the dreams of a new nation. In its emotive power and cultural depth, this painting stands among Rubin?s most important contributions to 20th-century art and to the visual heritage of Israel."
Condition
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Provenance
Provenance: The Hertz Estate, Beverly Hills CA; The Collection of Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Fisher, Bridgeton, N.J.; Authenticity confirmed by Ms. Carmela Rubin, Rubin Museum, Tel-Aviv,Literature: Reuven Rubin by Sarah Wilkinson (illustrated in color, p. 263.)Notes: This item does not qualify for in-house shipping. Please see our preferred shippers' list for quotes or arrange for local pickup. https://www.abell.com/buy-sell/how-to-ship/"One of Rubin?s most profound and iconic works, Crowning of the Torah captures the spiritual essence and cultural soul of the Jewish people. Here, Rubin elevates a traditional moment?the ceremonial crowning of the Torah?into a scene of mystical reverence and national symbolism. The central figure, cloaked in flowing robes and crowned with a red shtreimel, holds the Torah with an almost supernatural tenderness, while others gather in quiet awe, their eyes closed in devotion.With its softly glowing palette, ethereal composition, and expressive brushwork, this painting exemplifies Rubin?s unique synthesis of Eastern European expressionism and emerging Israeli light. The figures seem to drift between worlds, grounded in ritual yet lifted by spiritual transcendence?a hallmark of Rubin?s mature style.More than a religious scene, Crowning of the Torah is a statement of identity and continuity. Painted during a pivotal era in the formation of Israeli culture, the work reflects Rubin?s mission to forge a modern Hebrew visual language?one that could unite diaspora memory with the dreams of a new nation. In its emotive power and cultural depth, this painting stands among Rubin?s most important contributions to 20th-century art and to the visual heritage of Israel."