Custom Carving

30"H x 60"W x 10"D   AVAILABLE


The gift of light to humanity has been recorded by mythologies the world over. This Ner Tamid, or eternal light, represents both the Jewish and Northwest coastal concepts of light. The top and bottom pieces are hand carved using traditional tools from solid pieces of Yellow Cedar, as well as each of the four chains from which the pieces are suspended. The piece was hand painted, gilded, and varnished. Glass pieces and wiring were added to accentuate the theme of light on water.

The Torah records the renewal of creation as God's covenant after the flood. Noah sent out the dove to find vegetation. Upon its return God made a covenant with mankind, which was symbolized by the rainbow, the merging of water and light. Across the ark are inscribed the words of the covenant and upon the bottom piece are the words, "God created light and saw that it was good."

Across from the ark the Raven is represented, who in Northwest coastal traditions has numerous stories associating its character with the gift of light. Jewish artists throughout the diaspora have borrowed concepts, tools, and styles of local traditions to impress upon there ceremonial art. This Ner Tamid fuses the stories of light and water, reminding us of the covenant, that all the people of the world share this world and must work together to bring God's glory to the earth.