AN IMPORTANT BRASS AND BRONZE SYNAGOGUE CHARITY BOX. Alsace, early 19th century.

Although small Jewish communities in the villages of Alsace thrived until World War II, the changing demographics of the region led to the closing of many synagogues. As a consequence, examples of devotional objects formerly confined to local sites have become dispersed. It is interesting to note the aesthetic details of this eminently practical charity-box, for even the door to the coin compartment, barely visible due to its location, is finely decorated. Another Alsatian charity container topped with a three-dimensional hand outstreched palm is recorded in: Israel Museum Catalogue, “The Jews of Alsace” (1991), pp. 14, 54 SEE ILLUSTRATION