Shiviti, Written and Illustrated by Adler, in Milchdorf (Mliecno, Slovakia): 1890

Ink on paper, (19½ x 15½ in.; 495 x mm). Losses at the outer edges and at central crease expertly repaired, some text affected. Mounted in a wood frame.

Ink on paper, (19½ x 15½ in.; 495 x mm). Losses at the outer edges and at central crease expertly repaired, some text affected. Mounted in a wood frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A decorative plaque known as a "shiviti" is inscribed with the Hebrew verse from Psalms: "Shiviti ha-Shem le-Negdi Tamid" ("I have set the Lord always before me", Psalms 16:8). Plaques such as these were hung in synagogues and Jewish homes as a reminder of God's presence.  In the Ashkenazi milieu, the shiviti is often placed in a decorative frame next to the Holy Ark and has been a common element in synagogue furnishings since the eighteenth century. This shiviti is embellished with micrographic imagery of two lions flanking a crown and  floral motifs which are fashioned from verses in the book of Psalms. The central words are illuminated with shell gold highlights. The artist signs his name in the lower right corner and indicates that he is the Shochet and Bodek (ritual slaughterer) in the town of Milchdorf (Mliecno, Slovakia).