Jewish ceremonial art is objects used by Jews for ritual purposes. Because enhancing a mitzvah by performing it with an especially beautiful object is considered a praiseworthy way of honoring God's commandments, Judaism has a long tradition of commissioning ritual objects from craftsmen and artists.
Mezuzah
Silver Shabbat candlesticks
Silver handwashing cup
Havdalah candle holder and spice box
Havdalah is a Jewish religious ceremony that marks the symbolic end of Shabbat and ushers in the new week. The ritual involves lighting a special candle with several wicks, blessing a cup of wine, and smelling sweet spices. Shabbat ends on Saturday night after the appearance of three stars in the sky. Havdalah may be performed as late as sunset of the Tuesday following Shabbat.
Havdalah candles in the collection of the Jewish Museum of Switzerland.
Havdalah candle, kiddush cup, and spice box
Observing the Havdalah ritual, 14th-century Spain
Hasidic rebbe reciting Havdalah