Obj. ID: 38503  Passover towel, Germany, circa 1850

The following description was prepared by William Gross:

The use of a decorated towel cover is a custom largely limited to the German-speaking areas in Europe. These covers are usually embroidered and date from the 18th and 19th centuries. This object was used to make the plain towel a decorative item for the festive evening.

This Pesach towel cover is crafted in white on white embroidery in an elegant 19th-century manner. The lace around the perimeter of the cloth is an integral part of the creation and delicately crafted. All of the illustrations and decorations are in subtle colors and do not appear to have faded to these tones. Among the images of the Four Sons that are depicted, of particular interest is the presentation of Moses himself as the Wise Son as well as the depiction of the innocent son as Aaron, the High Priest. In the center are illustrated wheat stalks, a bottle of wine and grapes. The cloth is a particularly elegant work of stitchery and composition.