Work on the Great Synagogue’s interior was finally started in 1878, thanks to private bequests and donations. In Ir Tehila, Rabbi Feinstein describes in detail the Holy Ark and all the artistic trimmings inside the synagogue.
English translation:
One generous man, R' Haim Yosef Shereshevski, bequeathed 1000 silver [rubles] for the work remaining to be done on the synagogue. The money was kept in the hands of his heirs for several years – until 1878. They then gave it to the Gabbais to pay the craftsmen to create a fine and beautiful ark. The Gabbais vigorously followed these wishes – refining the grandeur of the ark.
We have a detailed description of the results:
The ark was adorned with artistic Mikla'at pka'im Ufyurey tzitzim [braided string of sprouts and bulbs] carvings of palm trees and open flowers overlaid with gold and silver. The ark was placed on a tall tower, 3 stages, and its top reached the ceiling. Four Amuday Shesh [marble pillars] stand to the left and right of the ark with kotarot [crowns] on top coated with pure gold, very beautiful. The ark with the tower alone cost approximately 2000 rubles.
They adorned the synagogue with a stone floor and a pulpit made of barzel ashot [wrought iron], artistically made. They added kruvim [cherubs] and timorot [palm trees] above the middle pillars, supporting the building.
A stone fence around the courtyard with mikhbar barzel [iron network], and wood carved by artists according to the Tzar's plans. The interior was adorned with all kinds of trimmings and beautiful ritual instruments.
| Notes: cherubs: the generic term angels might better match Rabbi Feinstein's intent, and avoids confusion with the unbiquitous depiction of cherubs as small, rosy-cheeked children. |
