Hand painted shofar

 

The Shofar is a traditional Jewish musical instrument used to mark and celebrate the Jewish high holidays. Making sure the Shofar’s is kosher is an exacting task; many Shofars are disqualified because the horns are fractured or too damaged. Some Shofars are painted with various designs and images. Many painted Shofars are ornamented with a special biblical theme or embellished with hand-painted illustrations of pomegranates, Hebrew text and Shofar depictions, making the painted Shofar a beautiful gift for the High Holidays. A closer look at painted Shofar will reveal the significance of this instrument in Jewish life and to God.

The Shofar, like many other articles in Judaism, varies according to custom and tradition. Though the curled Ram Shofar is the most common and best known, Yemenite Shofars, for example are made of Kudu horn, which is straight. Many modern Shofars are made of Jacob Sheep Horn, harvested from a six horned breed of sheep bred in England in the 18th century. The Jacob sheep horn Shofar is an example of the inventiveness and adaptability of the traditions of the Jewish People over the centuries, seeking out and creating new materials to maintain the age old customs.

Shofars vary in more than shape and material, however, finishing and polishing do a great deal to contribute to a Shofar’s ultimate appearance. Some prefer a polished sheen, while others are partial to a rugged natural finish. A combination, Shofars that are polished on one side and natural on the other is also an option making half polished ram Shofars and half polished Yemenite Shofars possible.

The contrast between the polished and natural sides can be amazing for both half polished ram Shofars and half polished Yemenite Shofars. Enjoy the gleam and then turn the Shofar and admire beautiful hues and shades.

Israel