Lot 102: MOZART ROTTMANN

PROPERTY OF A PRIVATE COLLECTOR

HUNGARIAN, B. 1874
THE TALMUDISTS

measurements
37 by 39 ½ in.

alternate measurements
94 by 100 cm

signed ROTTMANN M (lower left)

oil on canvas

NOTE

In The Talmudists, three men gather around a table as they take part in the Jewish tradition of biblical study. As the Sabbath comes to an end, symbolized by the burning Havdallah candle lit to end the Sabbath each week, these men are deep in debate as they discuss law, ethics, and rabbinical legends.

In the background, a bronze Hanukkah lamp burns, reminding us of the holy oil lamp which burned for 8 days when the Temple of Solomon was destroyed. A Mizrach picture makes reference to Jerusalem, marking the eastern direction of the holy city. Mizrach, the word for East in Hebrew, reminds the Jews of the Temple and the sacred city, and is the direction to which they pray.

The room is filled with lively conversation, apparent through the men's gestures towards one another. This fundamental source of legislation, customs, and morals is reflected through the warm atmosphere of soft glowing light and passionate discourse.