MFAH Welcomes Exclusive Items from New York's Jewish Museum, Prepares to Open Permanent Gallery

MFAH Welcomes Exclusive Items from New York's Jewish Museum, Prepares to Open Permanent Gallery

Menorah, 1963, New Paltz

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH New York’s Jewish Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston has just unveiled a collection of “exceptional objects” called Beauty and Ritual, on view through Sept. 18.


The MFAH acquired the Montegiore Mainz Mahzor, one of the earliest surviving prayer books from Central Europe, calligraphed and illustrated around 1310 — 150 years before Gutenberg would print his Bible in the same medieval town of Mainz. “Now, with this significant partnership with The Jewish Museum, New York, and access to their extraordinary collections, we are able to amplify the cultural and artistic history of Judaism,” said Director Gary Tinterow in a statement.

Among the 140 pieces on display in three separate galleries for Beauty and Ritual are ceremonial objects to beautify and protect the Torah; Judaica used for and on the Sabbath; and that which showcases menorahs.

The ongoing collaboration between the two institutions has been in the works for two years, the culmination of which is a dedicated gallery for Judaica, one of only a handful in North America. Together, the Jewish Museum in New York and the MFAH will bring important pieces of Jewish ceremonial art to Houston over the next several years. The Albert and Ethel Herzstein Gallery for Judaica is slated to open at the MFA in early 2023.

Torah Ark, 18th century, Westheim bei Hassfurt

Torah binder, 1662-63, Verona

A 19th-century Polish spice container

Art + Entertainment
Elevate Dining in and out this Summer with Steam Cooking

MAKE THE MOST of every delicious bite this summer with the benefits of steam cooking. Whether you’re reviving leftovers from Houston’s hottest foodie hangout or hosting memorable gatherings at home, integrating steam into your cooking repertoire can take your food to the next level.

Keep Reading Show less

Brasserie 19

THE RODEO OFFICIALLY opens on March 4, but Houston restaurants have already started saddling up with specials! So boot-scoot on over to one of these restaurants to savor the Texas tradition.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

Kendall and Susan Plank, Noel Wise, Anna Osborn, Michelle Koskie

MORE THAN 140 lovely ladies showed up at Tootsies to shop, sip and celebrate Dec My Room, the local nonprofit responsible for personalizing and decorating hospital rooms for pediatric and young-adult patients.

Keep Reading Show less
Food