Sefirat HaOmer Synagogue Plaque, Handwritten and Hand-Decorated – Eastern Europe, 19th Century

Sefirat HaOmer plaque, for hanging on synagogue wall. Location and date not indicated, probably Eastern Europe (Ukraine? / Galicia? / Eastern Hungary?), [19th century].

Ink on paper.

Large rectangular paper plaque, handwritten and hand-decorated with repeating geometrical patterns and some vegetal decorations. The top of the plaque is captioned with a rhyme (relying on an Ashkenazic accent): "Do not forget to recite Sefirat HaOmer, and all the more so will the Guardian save you from evil decrees". The center of the plaque has the order of counting the Omer in round frames against a black background, surrounded with the verses of Ana Bechoach. To the right and left are the blessing recited before counting the Omer, Lamnatzeach Binginot (Tehillim 67), and the Ribono Shel Olam prayer recited after counting the Omer. On the bottom margins appears the Yehi Ratzon prayer "that the Temple be rebuilt…".

37.5X59 cm. Fair condition. Many stains. Creases, folding marks and tears, professionally restored, but affecting text.