Obj. ID: 2220
Jewish Architecture Great Synagogue (Hoykhe Shul) in Botoşani – Women's section
To the main object: Great Synagogue (Hoykhe Shul) in Botoşani, Romania
The plafond in the women's section of the Great Synagogue in Botoşani includes a canvas attached to the ceiling. The central area of the plafond (depicting sky, stars, eagle, and the Giving of the Torah) is surrounded by three wide decorative borders. The first border comprises garlands of roses, rocaille cartouches, and images of vases. The second border is composed as a decorative architectural cornice with framed images of the Zodiac signs and animals. The third border constitutes a decorative band around the perimeter.
A double-headed heraldic eagle bearing the triple Habsburg crown appears at the very center of the vault against a background of blue sky and gold stars. This eagle grasps a pole bearing a small flag with Romanian colors. The Tablets of the Law are depicted resting on a cloud beneath the eagle.
This large plafond painting was executed with oil on primed canvas; its size is 7 x 11 meters. The condition of the plafond painting is poor. The canvas fabric is torn in many places, and large portions have been damaged by humidity and mold.
The plafond painting in the women's section was probably created at approximately the same time as the plafond of the main prayer hall; i.e., about 1890-1900. However, the painting in the women's section appears much more primitive than those in the main prayer hall.
