Golden Menorah of the Arch of Titus Revealed

After the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 CE, the golden Menorah and other holy objects were taken to Rome as booty of the First Jewish Revolt. Celebrated by Romans in the Arch of Titus, the menorah – a symbol of profound Jewish loss and hope for redemption – is today emblazoned on the seal of the State of Israel.

This lecture will highlight recent discoveries made by the Arch of Titus Digital Restoration Project, led by YU professor Steven Fine, of the original color of the menorah using the newest technological means. It will discuss what this pilot project harbingers for our understanding of the Arch of Titus, the Jewish Revolt and the significance of polychromy for understanding Roman Imperial art. Presented in cooperation with YU’s Center for Israel Studies.