Portrait of Grand Rabbi Yeshayah Steiner of Kerestir (1851–1925). With rabbinical title below.

REB SHAYELE KERESTIRER.

c. 1920’s

Oil on canvas.

A disciple of the Divrei Chaim and Rabbi Mordechai Leifer of Nadvorna, Reb Shayele - as he is affectionately known - was a Chassidic Rebbe and miracle worker. This painting produced during Reb Shayele’s lifetime, depicts him with head slightly bowed. It is said that the Divrei Chaim placed his hands on Reb Shayeleh’s head to bless him and that Reb Shayele never raised his head again. Recounted of Reb Shayele is the celebrated story wherein he rid the property of one of his followers of an infestation of rodents. See Alfasi, Traklinei Chassiduth p. 899. It is believed by his followers that Reb Shayele’s image protects against misfortune.