The Mizrach Key Ring

#X-2
1998, sterling silver
4cm x 4cm
Signed by the artist

Today the synagogue is the most sacred institution in Jewish life. It is a successor
to the Beit Hamikdash. It is customary to pray in the direction of Mizrach, which
means east. The reason for this is that the Temple was in Jerusalem, which is
located in the “East.” While reciting the three prayers of the day, no matter where
in the world one is standing, one must face Jerusalem.
With his Mizrach Key Ring, The artist has created a functional and unique piece
of art. A sterling silver square keychain has a compass in the center and is
embellished with the Hebrew words “Mitzad zeh ruach chaim,” meaning “from
this side, the spirit of life.” This phrase contains the letters which spell Mizrach,
or East. The key ring has a delicately hammered finish to disguise the fingerprints
that result from frequent use. This is another example of the artist’s awareness
of the principle “form follows function.”
Each work is signed by the artist.