Offered here is an exceptionally rare, museum-worthy example of Mizrahi Jewish material culture: a hand-painted ceramic cabinet plate celebrating the deep artistic heritage of Middle Eastern craftsmanship. This custom-commissioned piece features vibrant overglaze polychrome enamels and meticulous gold-gilt scrolling work against a milky-white glazed ground.

Iconography & Inscriptions:

The central motif displays the High Priest Aaron standing beside a pouring ewer, balanced on the right by Moses holding the Tablets of the Law. Between them stands a grand Temple Menorah inscribed with liturgical text on its branches. The base of the central scene intricately renders the walled city of Old Jerusalem, transitioning down to a localized vignette of Rachel’s Tomb shaded by an ancient tree. Encircling this composition are individual cartouches dedicated to the symbols of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, bounded by a beautiful, vibrant cobalt blue rim featuring gilded geometric lattices.

Backstamp & Provenance:

The back of the plate holds the crucial historical mark under a hand-painted Star of David. It features a green shield logo flanked by hand-painted Hebrew script indicating its creation by the Karbasi workshop, explicitly stating it was a custom commission ("Farmaish") for Tuvia of Jerusalem. The plate retains its original vintage brass/steel wire spring hanger, emphasizing its lifelong display status.

Note to Advanced Judaica Collectors:

Read the inscription on reverse side of the plate for the well-known city name in which it was produced.

Material & Specifications

• Material: Fine Vitreous Ceramic / Porcelain

• Technique: Hand-painted overglaze enamel, hand-gilded accents

• Dimensions: Approx. 10.25" (26 cm) diameter

Origin & Age

• Regional Origin: Near Eastern / Mizrahi Art

• Age: Mid-20th Century (circa 1950–1960)

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Excellent "as-found" vintage condition.

• Glaze & Paint: The enamels remain remarkably crisp and intense with no structural fading. There is minor, age-appropriate rubbing to the gold-gilt scrollwork along the borders.

• Structure: No chips, cracks, structural hairlines, or repairs. Sound, beautiful ring when tapped gently.

Reference

Book Reference:

The Jews of the Middle East: The History, Heritage and Culture of an Ancient Community by Houman M. Sarshar (Published by I.B. Tauris). Please refer to the chapters addressing twentieth-century Jewish silver and ceramic craftsmanship in the region, detailing custom commissions sent across the diaspora to Jerusalem.

Shipping calculated by eBay/USPS/UPS based on your ZIP code.

Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

Customer Service Commitment

We truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you'd like additional photos or have questions about an item, we're more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible--certainly before submitting feedback--so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we'll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.