Please find details of Herzl’s Dream by Menashe Kadishman
Menashe Kadishman’s portrayal of Theodor Herzl takes viewers on an emotional and visually striking journey into the essence of Zionism. It is more than a historical depiction. Instead, it unfolds as a vivid, dreamlike vision where past, present, and future meet seamlessly. Through this work, Kadishman invites us to step into Herzl’s world and experience his dream as alive, dynamic, and ever‑evolving.
At the center stands Herzl, leaning thoughtfully over a railing. His iconic profile is instantly recognizable. Kadishman references the famous photograph taken at the Three Kings Hotel in Basel during the First Zionist Congress in 1897, where Herzl gazes over the Rhine. Yet Kadishman moves him from Europe into a vibrant Israeli landscape, symbolizing the fulfillment of his vision.
Around him, rolling hills, Tel Aviv’s skyline, Jerusalem’s domes, palm trees, and winding roads converge. These elements reflect fragments of a thriving, modern homeland shaped by Herzl’s enduring dream.
7 Stars
The palette bursts with energy and intention. In particular, bright oranges, deep blues, and radiant greens create a sense of vitality and optimism. Yet at the same time, Herzl’s contemplative gaze introduces introspection, suggesting the weight of responsibility and the challenges tied to realizing such a monumental vision. Above him, seven floating stars honor Herzl’s original proposal for the Zionist flag, symbolizing the seven-hour workday. Thus, they embody justice, progress, and enlightenment, acting as guiding beacons through Israel’s evolving story.
Kadishman blends history with modern vitality, creating a timeless narrative. Bridges, airplanes, and abstract figures weave through the composition, capturing both the realization of Herzl’s dream and its ongoing journey. The painting embodies the spirit of Zionism as something both achieved and ever-striving.
Our Gallery
To experience this masterpiece and explore Kadishman’s broader body of work, visit King’s Gallery in Jerusalem.
Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. Particularly, we strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes primarily in artists from the early period of the 1920’s. Besides, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
