Havdalah Spice Container

Metal work by David Hunt; poem by Janis Rapoport
Gold-plated brass, dyes, fabrics, notions
Machine and hand embroidery, silk-screen
20 cm high x 46 wide x 8 deep (8" x 18" x 3")

The container creates a physical separation between Shabbat—with its elegant fabrics and warm, lively colours—and the rest of the week, represented by humble cloth and frayed edges. The vertical woven elements on the right side mark the seven days of the week.

Traditionally two branches of myrtle are used to welcome Shabbat; on the right, the visual 'whiff' of the single sprig in the spice container sustains us through the week, becoming increasingly visible as we move towards Shabbat. The work is intended to remain on view (and fragrant) throughout the week.

The poem compresses into its seven lines many elements of this ceremony. Glass beads underline letters forming the word "separate".
Photos: Paul Kay

Click on titles to view details:
detail one
detail two
return to full view