Burgundy velvet with embroidered central inscription topped by a crown with Hebrew initials, and surrounded by crossed branches. Gold ribbon borders at sides and bottom. Loops for hanging attached at back. H: 1840mm. Some wear at sides.

ELABORATE VELVET TORAH ARK CURTAIN FROM THE SOFER FAMILY Pressburg, 1906

The Hebrew inscription: "A memorial, in God's sanctuary, for the soul of our brillaint and renowned Rabbi, Rabbi Simcha Bunem Sofer, of blessed memory, leader of our congregation, who joined the heavenly ranks on the 15th of Kislev, 1906; a donation of ... Moshe; also in honor of his wife, Madam Yochad Laufer, may she live and be well." Rabbi Simcha Bunem Sofer (1842 - 1906) , a descendant of the Chassam Sofer, headed the large Pressburg Yeshiva and strengthened relations with the Hassidic rabbis of Hungary. He was known, after the title of one of his works, as the Shevet Sofer.