Shpayner-Arbet neckband for prayer-shawl, a layered repetition of floral and arboreal patterns. 36 x 5 inches. Some wear.

ATARAH FOR TALLITH.

circa 1900

The Jewish decorative work, known in Yiddish as shpanyer arbet, or ‘Spanish work,’ is based on the craft of lace-making that incorporates silver and gold thread which was practiced by the Jews of Mallorca, Barcelona, and Toledo in 15th-century Spain. In 18th century Poland and Galicia this coiled passementerie was used to adorn prayer shawls, kippot, kittels and women’s head-coverings. (See Yivo Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe).