Torah Pointer (Yad)

M. Goldsmidt
Cast and stamped silver, 12 1/16 x 1 ¾ in.
Poland, 1860
B’nai B’rith Klutznick Collection
2015.17.357

This yad would have been the height of Judaic fashion in the 1860s. Its pattern of bulbs along the design was very much in vogue in late 19th century Europe. Its artist, M. Goldsmidt, not only specialized in yad silversmithing; we have a record of his work in fashioning etrog containers as well, which is a case that holds a citron fruit during the holiday of Sukkot. This yad has had a second artistic life, providing inspiration to artist Mark Podwal for his exhibition at the Skirball, Drawing from the B’nai B’rith Klutznick Collection.

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