Arts and Culture
RJ Magazine

Cast Metal Clock

Jonathan Greenstein
Dear Jonathan, I've inherited a strange sort of Jewish cast metal clock that's nearly 6 inches in height, about which I know nothing, except that it might have belonged to my grandfather. Another less likely theory is that it may have been purchased by my parents, who typically did not...
Arts and Culture

Polish Menorah

Jonathan Greenstein
Dear Jonathan: My father purchased this menorah in the mid-1940s at a Zionist Organization of America gathering in New York City. Could shed any light on its origins and/or value?
RJ Magazine

Crystal Plates

Jonathan Greenstein
My husband bought these crystal plates from an acquaintance whose family background is not Jewish and who had brought them from Czechoslovakia shortly after the Second World War (she had been storing them in her attic).
Arts and Culture

Trench Art

Jonathan Greenstein
Dear Jonathan, Two great uncles of mine fought in then Palestine during WWI and brought back pieces of trench art as souvenirs. I'd love to know more about them. Jessica Tropp, Northampton, MA Dear Jessica, The main piece (shown here) is made from a spent German 90 millimeter artillery shell-mostly...
Arts and Culture

Silver Seder Plate

Jonathan Greenstein
Dear Jonathan, My father bought this silver seder plate about 35-40 years ago. The dealer told him it was from Pesaro, Italy and crafted of silver in 1614. It appears to be worn from use. Is it authentic? Sharon Rothmel, United Hebrew Congregation, St. Louis, Missouri Dear Sharon, Your family's...