“What took you so long?” These were the words Marc Chagall, the famous artist, uttered when Hadassah representatives approached him in the late 1950s. They sought to commission him to create stained glass for a new synagogue at the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem. Chagall, known for his vibrant colors and depictions of Jewish life, had long dreamt of contributing to the Jewish people. And so, he embarked on a project that would leave its mark on the history of art and architecture in Israel – the Stained Glass Windows “Genesis” in Jerusalem. The synagogue, now called Abbell Synagogue, is nestled within the hospital complex, a beacon of light and color in a place of healing.
The 12 windows, standing tall and majestic, tell the story of the 12 Tribes of Israel, inspired by biblical texts like Genesis 49 and Deuteronomy 33. Each window is a symphony of vibrant reds, blues, oranges, yellows, and greens, creating a breathtaking spectacle that washes the synagogue with a kaleidoscope of colors. It’s a testament to Chagall’s signature style – whimsical and expressive, blending the real and the surreal. The windows are a feast for the eyes, depicting animals, people, and objects swirling together in a harmonious dance of colours, a visual language understood by people from all walks of life.
The windows are a timeless reminder of a historical connection. It is interesting to note that a green bird’s head surmounts a largely orange and red urn. A blue goat smiles in a cubist depiction. These are but glimpses of the hidden details within these windows, each with a unique story to tell. The story of the Jewish people is told through the biblical text, and the story of Chagall’s personal journey is interwoven through the vibrant colors and whimsical imagery.
Perhaps the most fascinating detail is that Chagall considered the windows to be a “modest gift” to the Jewish people. He poured his heart and soul into this project, working tirelessly for two years to create these masterpieces. It is clear that Chagall was a man who loved his people. His art in the Stained Glass Windows “Genesis” is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the Jewish people, their history, and the beauty of their traditions. They are a testament to the power of art to transcend time and to capture the essence of a people’s collective spirit.