| |
Ketubah, Jewish marriage contract, 2007
Amy Fagin (b. 1959)
New Salem, Massachusetts
Paper, ink
28 x 20 in. sheet
Private Collection
Photography by Jason Dowdle
|
|
Amy Fagin practices the ancient art of manuscript illumination. In western tradition, an illuminated manuscript is one in which the handwritten or printed text is enhanced by the addition of decorated initials, borders, or illustrations. Technically speaking, illumination (also called gilding), refers to the application of gold leaf onto vellum or paper. However, illumination has come to be understood as a genre of art.
One of Amy's specialties is the ceremonial art of the ketubah (marriage contract) originated in early Jewish history as one of the first written documents required by Jewish law. Ornate and personalized, a couple's ketubah is hung prominently in the home as a daily reminder of their vows and their responsibilities to each other.
In 2006, Amy Fagin was named a Mass Cultural Council Finalist in the Traditional Arts.
|
 |
|
