Obj. ID: 36858
Sacred and Ritual Objects  Shadai'a, Ioannina, 1849-1869

The following description was prepared by William Gross:

In a custom unique to the Romaniote Jews and in particular, to the community in Ioannina, Parochet plaques of silver were prepared and dedicated for various reasons to be hung around the doors of the Aron Kodesh on a band of textile material. The earliest plaques are known from the 17th century and such plaques are still being made in Romainote communities. Seen in the context of the Greek Orthodox culture in which the Romaniote communities reside, the custom appears to be a reflection of the votive plaques prepared and dedicated to the local churches. Certain silversmiths in each generation prepared plaques, and within particular periods the plaques resemble one another closely. Almost all of them begin with the words, "Al Shadai" and therefore are called "Shaddaya" or "Shaddayot" in the plural.

This example comprises a group of amulets still attached to the original textile for hanging. Seven of the eight original plaques are present. Such groupings are quite rare. Since the latest date on one of the seven plaques is 1869, it is reasonable to assume that the ensemble was made in the early 1870's.

For a description of every plaque see objects 049.001.010, 049.001.011, 049.001.012, 049.001.013, 049.001.014, 049.001.015, 049.001.016.