Please find details of “Chanukiah” by Yaacov Agam
In the hands of Yaacov Agam, tradition becomes transformation. His kinetic work Chanukia is a striking polygraph that changes before your eyes — and in doing so, reshapes how we experience Jewish symbolism, time, and perception.
At first glance, this 23 x 24 cm polygraph appears geometric and serene. But as you shift your position, the artwork comes alive. One angle reveals a Chanukiah (Hanukkah menorah), complete with its rhythmic candle-like forms glowing in rich symmetry. Move slightly, and the menorah dissolves into a Magen David. From yet another angle, the scene flattens into a modernist pattern — crisp white panels, fine linear grids, and bold orange plate.
Moreover, this is not just visual trickery. It is Agam’s philosophy made visible — that nothing is fixed, and that meaning is revealed through movement.
Kinetic Art
Yaacov Agam, a pioneer of kinetic and optical art, has spent a lifetime developing a language of dynamic abstraction. Deeply influenced by his spiritual upbringing and Bauhaus aesthetics, Agam’s work always bridges logic and mysticism, structure and spontaneity. In Chanukia, these dualities shine. The piece references ancient symbols, yet presents them in a thoroughly contemporary, technological format.
The construction is deceptively simple. However, the result is a complex visual experience. Depending on where you stand, the piece tells a different story. The viewer becomes the final element of the artwork — activating its potential through motion.
The artist’s signature appears clearly at the bottom — a quiet affirmation of authorship in a world of visual motion.
Besides, check our blog about the unique scroll of Esther with original serigraphs. Agam’s interest in experiments with the volume perceptions and colours reflects in the geometrical prints that resemble vision illusions. In addition, take a look at “Square Polygraph”.
Our gallery
Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. With over 20 years of experience, we strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes on artists from the early period of the 1920’s. We have a large variety of original works and lithographs by leading Jewish, Israeli, and international artists. In addition, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
