How to Start Collecting Judaica What is “collectible” in Judaica?
The answer depends on taste, interests, and certainly, one’s pocketbook. Most people prefer to collect a variety of Jewish antique categories rather than to specialize. His is because of the interest provided by variety and diversification and because the rarity of fine antique Jewish art makes specialized collecting more difficult. In any case, one should logically begin with the least scarce categories. They include Chanukah lamps, spice containers and textiles of all kinds. These were ubiquitous in Jewish homes everywhere. These offer a wide variety of types and forms to choose from. Old picture post cards and print reproductions of various kinds are also readily available at low to moderate cost. Exotic beauty, Hebrew calligraphy, intrinsic interest, ready identification of original owner, location and exact date – as well as attractiveness and ease of display – they can be framed and displayed like pictures – make decorated Ketubot, or marriage documents, highly desirable collecti
