Hanukkah Menorah

Abrasha, Hanukkah Menorah, 1995, fabricated stainless steel, sterling silver, and 24k gold, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the James Renwick Alliance and the artist in memory of the artist's father, Solomon David Staszewski, 1996.36A-J, © 1995, Abrasha
Copied Abrasha, Hanukkah Menorah, 1995, fabricated stainless steel, sterling silver, and 24k gold, overall: 6 7817 143 78 in. (17.543.89.8 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the James Renwick Alliance and the artist in memory of the artist’s father, Solomon David Staszewski, 1996.36A-J, © 1995, Abrasha

Artwork Details

Title
Hanukkah Menorah
Artist
Date
1995
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
overall: 6 7817 143 78 in. (17.543.89.8 cm)
Copyright
© 1995, Abrasha
Credit Line
Gift of the James Renwick Alliance and the artist in memory of the artist’s father, Solomon David Staszewski
Mediums Description
fabricated stainless steel, sterling silver, and 24k gold
Classifications
Object Number
1996.36A-J

Artwork Description

The Hanukkah Menorah has eight branches of equal height and a ninth, taller branch for the shamash, or "servant light," used to light the others. The Hanukkah holiday commemorates the rededication of the Hebrew Temple of Jerusalem after it was destroyed by the Syrians in 165 BC. Abrasha's menorah conforms to Jewish law by burning wicks in olive oil instead of candles. Hinges allow the piece to be arranged in different ways, and the gold, silver, and stainless steel provide a play of different colors under the light of the wicks.