Jewish Art and History An Illustrated Lexicon

From Adam to Yiddish, via comics, Dreyfus, exile, Jerusalem, Kabbalah, magic, and the Torah, this volume celebrates Jewish art, history, and traditions in five hundred illustrated alphabetical entries.

The rich and diverse story of the Jewish diaspora--throughout Europe and the Mediterranean, and from New York to Shanghai--is recounted through remarkable works of art and traditional artifacts that bear witness to the Jewish story.

Each entry explores a fascinating aspect of Judaism--from the central themes of the faith to special, rare aspects--opening a window onto this rich mosaic of cultural heritage. The exquisite illustrations draw readers in to celebrate Judaism's essential contributions to world culture and to bear witness to the vibrant importance of the Jewish legacy in the contemporary world.

Illustrated by works of art and objects from the collection of the eminent museum of Judaic art and history in Paris, the book traces the Jewish journey through time and space, encompassing historical events, traditions, rituals, and art.

Paul Salmona is director of the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme (mahJ) in Paris. Dominique Schnapper is president of the mahJ in Paris. She is a scholar, professor of sociology, and former member of the Constitutional Council of France (2001-10).