Tiered Seder Plate, Franz Strobl (?),1814.
Having been a docent since the Skirball opened in 1996, I have had numerous opportunities to talk about the many objects in the core exhibition, Visions and Values: Jewish Life from Antiquity to America. One of my personal favorites is the seder plate shown above, on display in the Holidays Gallery. Made in Vienna in 1814, this beautiful silver plate has three tiers for matzah and seven screw-on cast figures who hold the ceremonial Passover foods. If you look closely, you’ll notice that the figures are different sizes and are wearing clothing from different eras. The reason for this is unknown.
My family’s seder plate.
My own seder plate is not nearly so elaborate. Designed by an American artist in 1990, it features illustrations of wisteria delicately intertwined with grapes—a reminder of the importance of the grape in the Passover story. Accompanying it are small dishes for the seder foods.
Our family Passover celebration has evolved over the years because of my work as a Skirball docent. We have adopted several different customs that were not a part of my family Passovers in the Midwest when I was growing up. For instance, at my Passover dinners now, we giddlily slap each other with scallions—a Persian custom. Also we have added Sephardic foods that would never have been found at my Ashkenazi grandparents’ table. Several years ago, my husband put together his own Haggadah, drawing from many different sources—including renowned American Jewish author Elie Wiesel—to keep the adults interested. And we have fun with the children, too, throwing plagues across the table and singing silly songs. Last year, my four-year-old niece took us out of Egypt to our dining room, banging on Miriam’s timbrel to lead the way. Every year we try to add something new, just to spice things up.
Consider adding something new to your Seder. Your guests will thank you for it.
—Sharon L. Krischer, Skirball Docent
Apply now to become a docent at the Skirball! Applications accepted until May 15.