Bidspirit auction | Portuguese Synagogue, Amsterdam – 18th-Century

Portuguese Synagogue, Amsterdam – 18th-Century Engraving by J.C. Philips after G. van Giffen, Published by R. Boitet - A fine and rare 18th-century copperplate engraving depicting the Portuguese Synagogue (Esnoga) in Amsterdam. Drawn by G. van Giffen, engraved and directed by Jan Caspar Philips, and published by Reinier Boitet under royal privilege (cum privil.). The upper banner reads “Synagoge der Portugeesche Jooden”, while the façade bears the Hebrew year 5486 (1675/6) — the year of the synagogue’s dedication. This print combines architectural precision with lively urban detail, showing carriages, figures, and the surrounding buildings of the Jewish quarter. 📜 Details:  • Artist: G. van Giffen (delineavit)  • Engraver: J.C. Philips (fecit direxit)  • Publisher: R. Boitet (excudit cum privil.)  • Country: Netherlands, 18th century  • Technique: Copperplate engraving  • Subject: Portuguese Synagogue (Esnoga), Amsterdam  • Inscription: “G. v. Gieffen del. – R. Boitet excud. cum privil. – J.C. Philips fec. direx.”  • Size: 31 × 35 cm  • Condition: Very good; original central fold, clean margins, light age toning 📖 Historical Context: Built between 1671–1675 by architect Elias Bouman, the Portuguese Synagogue (Esnoga) was a monumental achievement of Amsterdam’s Sephardic Jewish community. This engraving, issued in the 18th century, documents one of Europe’s most iconic symbols of Jewish faith and Dutch tolerance during the Enlightenment.