This elegant memorial board was originally commissioned by a Sephardic synagogue in Australia. Crafted from solid oak, it features an upward-facing Hamsa symbol, adorned with traditional straw marquetry.
Straw marquetry is a meticulous decorative art that uses hand-dyed and flattened rye straw, arranged in patterns that reflect light with a natural, silky sheen—similar in effect to fine metal leaf or silk.
The Hamsa, a symbol of protection and blessing in Sephardic and Middle Eastern traditions, is shown here with the fingers pointing upward—a posture often associated with warding off negativity and invoking divine safeguarding.
The piece shown measures 30 x 60 cm. Similar designs can be custom-made to order.