Safed is one of four Holy Cities of Israel, in particular, there is a term “four lands of life” (ארבע ארצות החיים) referring to Jerusalem, Hebron, Safed and Tiberias. In the 16th century these places were coined for charitable purposes under the leadership of Rabbi Moshe Alshich, Rabbi Yosef Caro, Rabbi Yitzchak Luria and Rabbi David ibn Zimra (Radbaz).
Safed is the “City of Sages and Mystics”, as from here great mystics and their students spread teachings of Kabbalah throughout the world. Rabbi Yitzchak Luria, known as the Arizal, is one of the most important leaders of the Jewish people. His songs and prayers are widely adopted.
In this blog I would like to stop on three artworks from our collection.
“Safed” by Albert Goldman
Albert Goldman in his “Safed” depicted unique mystical atmosphere of the city. Multicolored overhanging houses shimmer in the light. Moreover, few inhabitants seem to be inseparable parts of united pure motionless landscape. Besides, sunset rays magically illuminate the painting creating reflections of bright colors of the sky. The hills appear silent and calm.
“Ha’Ari Synagogue in Safed” by Moshe Castel
Moshe Castel shows a lesson in famous “Ha’Ari Synagogue in Safed”. Interestingly, this was the place where Arizal prayed on Shabbat evenings. In general, Castel’s art conveyed the connection between spiritual and material and, moreover, manifestation of one in the other. Also, the blue color is very common in his art, it refers to the color of Safed and has a special spiritual meaning.
“Kiddush Levana in Safed” by Zvi Malnovitzer
Kidush Levana (a blessing of the new Moon) happens once per month no earlier than three days after the new Moon. Spectators of “Kiddush Levana in Safed” seem to stand near a group devoted to the prayer. Zvi Malnovitzer illuminates the artwork by the combination of light reflections coming from the moon and lanterns.
Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. We strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes in artists from the early period of the 1920’s. In addition, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
