This is a vintage hammered copper wall plaque depicting the Kotel HaMa'aravi (Western Wall) in Jerusalem, a sacred Jewish site and remnant of the Second Temple. The artwork features a highly textured, repoussé (hammered relief) design with irregular, stone-like bricks forming an arched architectural structure, evoking the ancient limestone blocks of the actual wall. The composition shows a receding perspective of the wall's facade, with subtle architectural details like an arched niche or gateway on the right side, suggesting depth and historical grandeur. At the bottom, embossed Hebrew script reads "קוֹתֵל הַמַּעֲרָבִי" (Kotel HaMa'aravi), translating to "Western Wall," confirming the subject. The copper has developed a rich, warm patina from age and handling, with glossy highlights on the raised surfaces and darker tones in the recesses, enhancing its tactile, three-dimensional quality. Framed in an ornate wooden frame with gilded (gold-leafed) accents on the outer edges, giving it a classical, antique appearance. The inner border is lined with deep blue felt matting, providing contrast to the copper's earthy tones and evoking the spiritual blues of Jewish tradition. On the reverse, the backing consists of aged paperboard secured with wire hangers and small nails, showing minor wear and tears consistent with decades of display. Overall dimensions, including the frame, measure 16.5 inches in height by 20 inches in width, making it suitable for wall hanging in a home, office, or synagogue space.

Age: Mid-20th century, likely 1950s-1970s. The craftsmanship aligns with the post-1948 boom in Israeli folk art and Judaica production, when artisans in Jerusalem and surrounding areas created souvenirs celebrating Israel's independence and Jewish heritage. The frame's aged wood and gilding, combined with the copper's patina (natural oxidation from air exposure over 50+ years), supports this dating. No maker's marks are visible, but similar pieces from this era often come from workshops like those in the Bezalel style or independent Jerusalem coppersmiths.

Usage: This is a decorative wall hanging intended for display in Jewish homes, synagogues, or cultural spaces to evoke spiritual connection to Jerusalem and the Kotel, a site of pilgrimage and prayer. It serves as inspirational Judaica art, symbolizing resilience, faith, and the longing for the Holy Temple. Not functional (e.g., not a tray or vessel), it's purely ornamental, though the sturdy construction allows for easy hanging via the rear wire.

Origin: Made in Israel, most likely Jerusalem or a nearby artisan workshop (e.g., in the Old City or artists' quarters like Nahalat Shiva). The subject matter and Hebrew inscription point to Israeli production during the early statehood period, when hammered copper Judaica became popular exports for tourists and diaspora Jews. The technique—hand-hammering thin copper sheets over a form to create relief—is a traditional Middle Eastern craft adapted by Israeli artists, often using local materials.

Item dimensions: 16.5 in tall × 20 in wide × 1.75 in deep  

Weight of item only: 3 lb 13 oz