Jerusalem Peace (The Western Wall and Holy Dove)
Painting on canvas, landscape orientation • Heim Sherrfos (based on bottom-right signature)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Jewish Art / Neo-Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Mixed media with heavy body acrylic or oil; utilizes palette knife impasto, scumbling, and heavy texture modeling to create a 3D relief effect on the stonework.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 30 x 40 inches (exclusive of frame); Large landscape format.
Subject Description
A symbolic depiction of the Old City of Jerusalem featuring the Western Wall and Tower of David under a large stylized moon or celestial orb. A white dove, symbolizing peace, flies over the cobalt-blue masonry. The composition uses vibrant blues and yellows to evoke a spiritual, night-time atmosphere.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The heavy impasto is intact, and colors remain vibrant.
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$500 - $900 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a Judaica art gallery or Israeli estate; signature suggests the artist active in the Israeli contemporary market.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the modern Israeli school of art which blends traditional Jewish iconography with expressive, textured techniques. It serves as a decorative and spiritual piece rather than a historical document.
Notable Features
High-relief texture on the stone blocks; distinctive circular 'nimbus' around the moon; signature 'Heim Sherrfos' in the lower right corner; original gilded decorative frame.
Condition Issues
Minor dust accumulation in the heavy impasto grooves; slight potential for hairline cracking (craquelure) in the thickest moon area; frame shows light wear.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a low-humidity environment to prevent the thick paint layers from becoming brittle. Dust with a soft, dry natural-hair brush. Avoid direct UV sunlight to prevent fading of the blue pigments.