Rachel Feinstein x IPPOLITA x The Jewish Museum: Fan Castle Ring in 925 Sterling

 

The “mazal tov ring,” an iconic form of Judaica known since the Middle Ages, features architectural structures that resemble houses or castles, synagogues, or the ancient temple in Jerusalem. Like the huppah, or marriage canopy, the architectural element of these rings may symbolize the marital home of the new couple. The Jewish Museum’s renowned collection includes several marriage rings, including a rare Medieval example.

 

In 2019, the Jewish Museum commissioned artist Rachel Feinstein to create a new work for the Museum’s collection. The result is a fantastical castle-shaped ring, almost a foot tall, that engages the symbolism and ceremonial use of Jewish marriage rings through the lens of Feinstein’s own artistic practice. This elaborate piece was designed in collaboration with and crafted by IPPOLITA.

 

The Castle Ring Editions, also designed by Feinstein with IPPOLITA, are available in three designs: Fan Castle Ring in 925 silver or 18kt gold, Castle on the Rock Ring in 18kt gold and chrysoprase or malachite in a limited edition with certificate of authentication, and Talia’s Ring in 18kt gold in a limited edition with certificate of authentication.

 

Rachel Feinstein (American, b. 1971)

Fabricated by IPPOLITA (New York, founded 1999)

Marriage ring, 2023

Gilt silver 11 × 4 × 3 1/4 in. (27.9 × 10.2 × 8.3 cm)

The Jewish Museum, New York

Commission: Judaica Acquisitions Committee Fund, Contemporary Judaica Acquisitions Committees Fund, and Contemporary Deaccession Fund, 2023-110

 

Rachel Feinstein studied religion and studio art while an undergraduate at Colombia University. She frequently turns to subjects with roots in religion and mythology: Biblical figures, satyrs, and saints appear alongside protagonists from fairy tales or fantastic characters inspired by her personal history. Formally and conceptually, her work asserts the deep mutuality of apparent binaries: reality and fantasy, lightness and darkness, perfection and chaos. The Jewish Museum presented Feinstein’s first solo exhibition in the United States in 2019.

 

The Jewish Museum is an art museum committed to illuminating the complexity and vibrancy of Jewish culture for a global audience. Through distinctive exhibitions and programs that present the work of diverse artists and thinkers, we share ideas, provoke dialogue, and promote understanding. Located on New York City's Museum Mile, in the landmarked Warburg mansion, the Jewish Museum was the first institution of its kind in the United States and is one of the oldest Jewish museums in the world.

 

"Beauty in our everyday lives brings joy to the human experience and fosters a culture of care." #ART MATTERS is a core principle of the IPPOLITA brand. Art.Sculpture.Beauty.