Torah Ark, Piedmont, northern Italy, 17th century

This beautiful Ark originated in a synagogue in northern Italy, most probably in Piedmont. It was discovered in 1932 in Chillingham Castle, Northumbria in use as a steward’s wardrobe. It may have been purchased in Italy by an English nobleman making the Grand Tour. It was one of the first objects presented to the museum.The Ark is made of Italian walnut with gilded and marbled paintwork. It is decorated with carved Jewish symbols, including the seven-branched Temple menorah and a handwashing basin on the doors, and Aaron’s rod and the pot of manna on the sides. The Hebrew inscription over the top reads “Know before whom you stand”.When not in use in a synagogue service, Torah scrolls are stored in the Ark and covered with fine decorations. Communities usually own several scrolls and it is a joyous occasion when a new one is dedicated.