The term
rimmonim
originally is drawn from
the shape of these ritual objects which
were crafted to resemble pomegranates
(in Hebrew
rimmon
, plural
rimmonim
).
They were set on the tips of the Torah scroll
handles, although, in some cases, simpler
silver finials were used. In time,
the iconographic motif of the
rimmon
evolved, taking on architectural shapes:
towers in German communities, bell towers
topped by a vase of flowers in Italy.
The pinnacle was generally embellished
with decorations reminiscent of the
vestments from the Temple in Jerusalem
and the attributes of the
Cohanim
(the priests).
Often the
rimmonim
were finished off
with bells that jingled as the Torah moved,
thus imparting a festive air, a sense of
celebration to accompany the reading.
Rimmonim
Rimmonim
,
early XIX century, Cento,
embossed, punched, engraved silver,
height 32 cm
Rimmonim
,
around XVIII century,
Cento, silver-plated copper,
pomegranate-shaped, partially painted,
height 24.5 cm
16
17
