This is an authentic, wonderfully detailed mid-century vintage Judaica plaster bust sculpture by the listed artist David Kaplan. Dated 1969, this expressive figure captures a bearded Rabbi or scholar deeply immersed in studying a sacred text, his face alive with intellectual and spiritual focus. The scholar wears a traditional black cap, a dark brown buttoned coat, and delicate, hand-formed wire eyeglasses that rest gently on his nose.

The most extraordinary feature of this piece is the open book held in his hands. The pages feature sharp, legible rows of printed text written in Hebrew/Yiddish characters rather than simple abstract brushstrokes. The sculpture is cast in dense plaster/composition material with an earthy, hand-painted finish that gives it the heavy appearance of sculpted clay or bronzed wood. The reverse of the base contains the incised artist mark "© 1969 KAPLAN". This charming studio piece is a perfect addition to an online store catering to collectors of classic 20th-century American Judaica art.

Technical Specifications

• Subject: Scholar/Rabbi Reading or Studying Torah

• Artist: David Kaplan (Signed "KAPLAN" on base reverse)

• Age / Production Date: 1969

• Material: Painted Plaster / Composition Chalkware, Metal Wire (Eyeglasses)

• Finish: Matte earthy brown and black tones, hand-painted facial detailing, and printed decoupaged/transfer textual pages

• Origin: United States / Israel (Judaica Studio Cast)

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Very Good vintage condition, remarkably well-preserved for plaster art from this era.

• Surface & Paint: The hand-painted finishes show excellent depth. There are trace, tiny pinpoint flecks of paint loss or minor rubbing on high-relief points (such as the cap edge and fingers) which are typical for vintage chalkware and do not distract from display.

• Structural Elements: The original wire spectacles are completely intact and securely positioned on the bridge of the nose.

• Base Underneath: The flat base features its original dark protective coating, four felt pads to prevent surface scratching, and an original gold stamp or design number ("812").

Reference

Book Title: Treasures of Jewish Art: From the Jacobo and Valeria Furman Collection of Modern Judaica

Author: Valeria Furman

Page Number: Page 84

(Note: This volume contextualizes the widespread post-war American and international collector market for narrative, small-scale character studies of traditional religious life, highlighting figures who popularized the aesthetic of the pious scholar).

Item dimensions: 7.25" tall × 4" wide × 4.25" deep  

Weight of item only: 1 lb 11.5 oz  

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.