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Jewish-Americana Drawn in St. Louis

This illuminated manuscript, crafted by M.J. Gelb in 1926, serves as a Yahrzeit memorial for Simon Solomon, also known as Simchah son of Yitzchak Dovid, who passed away on the 9th of Teveth, 5686 (1925).

Rendered in pen-and-ink and colored pencils on thin board, this memorial includes a small original photograph of Solomon and features an annual listing (1926-1982) of the Yahrzeit date. The dates are meticulously recorded within a vibrant border that showcases an integration of the United States and Zionist flags, symbolizing the dual heritage and patriotic sentiment of the artist.

The piece is a rare example of American-Jewish art, reflecting the cultural and national identities of the Jewish diaspora in the early 20th century. The artwork was previously framed, and the back of the original frame bears an announcement from the artist detailing the costs associated with producing similar custom Yahrzeit charts. This announcement, though worn, provides additional context to Gelb’s professional practice.

Rarity

Comparable illuminated manuscripts by M.J. Gelb are housed in The Jewish Museum in New York, underscoring the historical and artistic significance of his work.

Translation of Hebrew Text

1. The text below the portrait:

   • זכור אזכור (Zachor Ezkor) - "I will surely remember"
   • את שם הנפטר (Et Shem Haniftar) - "the name of the deceased"
   • שמחה בן יצחק דוד (Simchah Ben Yitzchak Dovid) - "Simchah son of Yitzchak Dovid"

2. The text above the yearly dates:

   • נפטר ט' טבת תרפ"ו (Niftar T't Tevet 5686) - "Passed away on the 9th of Tevet, 5686" (Jewish calendar date corresponding to December 28, 1925)