By Sheila Orysiek
SAN DIEGO — Neil Folberg’s And I Shall Dwell Among Them: Historic Synagogues of the World, Aperture Book Publisher; 1st edition, September, 1995, is a very special treasure. Each of the almost two hundred large color photographs is an individual work of art about Judaism’s places of worship. Folberg brings expertise and his art as a photographer as he meticulously chooses the time of day, the lighting, and the composition which best captures the spirit the space embodies.
In our time, we are more accustomed to fairly plain sanctuaries with little display of the decorative arts. However, many of our forbears apparently felt quite the opposite. While incorporating the indigenous art of the country within which the congregation lived, they adapted it, shaped it, and obviously reveled in praying in a space that was beautiful. They weren’t satisfied with only utilitarian usage.
Some of the synagogues photographed are no longer active; the congregation dispersed to new lands – or simply gone. But, the synagogues still remain as part of the history of the area and in many instances are cared for by the resident non-Jewish population. In other places like Uzbekistan, the Magreb (North Africa), India, etc., the congregants have moved to Israel and the synagogues will eventually be turned to other uses and so photographing them is a timely necessity.
Frankly, I was truly overwhelmed to see how even some of the smallest places of worship – perhaps as small as a single consecrated room in a private home – had been so lovingly and masterfully decorated. From the delicacy of Arabic influenced mosaics and filigree to the wide beams, columns and arches of Gothic grandeur each reflects the individuality of the congregation which created it. Stained glass windows, carved wood, calligraphy of Hebrew scripture – everywhere the eye looks – it is captivated. And, it all seems to be about “Let there be light.”
This book is highly recommended.
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Orysiek is a freelance writer who specializes in arts and literature. She may be contacted via sheila.orysiek@sdjewishworld.com. Any comments for posting below should include the full name of the letter writer and his or her city and state of residence. Those living outside the United States should send the name of their city and country.