EXCEPTIONAL PAIR OF BOHEMIAN TORAH MANTLES. Matching pair, each composed of gilt and multi-colored threads on silk. ...

EXCEPTIONAL PAIR OF BOHEMIAN TORAH MANTLES. Matching pair, each composed of gilt and multi-colored threads on silk. 22 x 39 inches (56 x 99 cm). Some loss. Each housed in older, fine gilt frames.
1735

The Torah Mantle covers the scroll, whilst it is placed in the Ark. This textile mentioned above, and others, constitute the chief treasures of a synagogue and were donated by the wealthiest members of the community or by guilds and associations. Being the textile capital of the world, the Jews of Prague to took special pride in beautifying their synagogues with elaborate Torah curtains, draperies and mantles.

The Hebrew dedicatory inscription records that this pair of magnificent floral Torah Mantles were donated by Bunim Koiders, son of Rabbi Kalman, and his wife Madam Yitel, daughter of Dr. Nathan Epstein Segal, in the year 1735, both were well established respectable families from Prague. (See R. Sinai Hack, Mishpachoth Prague al pi Matzeivotehen, 1891 p. 310 No 814/5785 and p. 248 No 3680b/3690)

Additionally, both families were Leviim (Levites), symbolized by the embroidery of a jug as a reference to the Levites washing the hands of the Kohanim (priests).

For a similar Bohemian gilt-thread Mantle, see Sotheby's, Judaica, 20th December, 2017, Lot 100.

See also Ludmila Kybalova¡, Eva Kosakova (et al), Textiles from Bohemian and Moravian Synagogues: From the Collections of the Jewish Museum in Prague (2003).