Lost Treasures: The Wooden Synagogues of Eastern Europe The Artwork of Bill Farran
Warka, Poland - Original Linocut
Warka, Poland - Original Linocut
Yiddish name: Vorke
The wooden synagogue of Warka was built sometime between 1811-1817. The prayer hall, almost square with an octagonal ceiling, was covered entirely with paintings of animals, symbols, and landscapes. Prayer verses and sayings of the old sages were placed between the images.
During the night after the Jewish holiday of Sukkot in October 1939, the townspeople noticed the synagogue on fire. They ran toward the synagogue to put out the fire. However, the entire Jewish quarter was encircled by soldiers, opening fire at the oncoming Jews, forcing them to retreat to their homes. The fire spread to nearby houses and the Jews attempted to escape, but they were met by bullets. As more Jewish houses caught fire, the people ran to the courtyards for protection against the flames and bullets. Miraculously, the wind changed, and the fire spread to the Christian quarter. When that happened, the soldiers ordered the Jews to work at extinguishing the fire, saving many Jews from certain death.
Purchase a print
Original linocut prints are 8x10 inches, and are available either unmatted or in an 11x14 matte.
I also offer matted 5x7 digital prints. These prints are created from high-res digital images and come in an 8x10 matte.
For this synagogue I have created an additional digital print, with Hebrew lettering in the background. These prints are also created from high-res digital images and come in an 8x10 matte.