Present day Iraq, historically ancient Babylonia, boasted a substantial Jewish presence from the time of Ezra the Scribe, but virtually no relics of its ancient and medieval Jewry have survived. Skilled Jewish silversmiths from the 18th to 20th centuries, made Baghdad an important center within the Islamic world for the production of such Jewish ritual objects as Torah cases and amulets. These objects and their relationship to Jewish traditions and practices will be discussed and illustrated.

This lecture will be held at the Center for Jewish History: 15 West 16th Street. Proof of vaccination required for entry.