Dimensions: 530 cm x 350 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, is without a doubt, one of Kimchi’s most formidable creations to date.
The ark is only part of an entire set of synagogue furnishings, (some of which can be seen in accompanying photo) that kimchi designed and hand-crafted for the Mishan Home for assisted living in Givatai’im, Israel.
Dimensions: 520 cm x 650 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
Not all Torah arks are created equal. This one certainly wasn’t. It is a triple-tiered, 6.5 meter tall creation with endless amounts of hand-sculpted panels. The bottom level houses a hidden room in which the Torah scrolls are stored.
The accompanying Bimah augments the rippling effect of the carved panels which grow smaller as they radiate from the center.
Dimensions: 480 cm x 320 cm high
Materials: Cherry
This Aron Kodesh includes many of Kimchi’s favorite themes: use of positive and negative space, transcending order of heights, depths and widths, dramatic hidden lighting, and, of course, a wild hand-sculpted interpretaion of the flame theme.
In the photos one can also see the Bimah, bookcases, mechitzahs and Chazan’s stand which Kimchi created to complement the Aron Kodesh.
Dimensions: 480 cm x 460 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
Kimchi enjoys allowing the observer to be an active partipant in his creations. In this case the eye is drawn instinctively along the hand-sculpted panels as they leap from the bottom to the top section, thus completing the composition. An accompanying Bimah creates a matching ensemble.
Dimensions: 240 cm x 140 cm x 280 cm high
Materials: Cherry
It’s not every day that one is commissioned to create the artistic furnishings for the first ever synagogue on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.
Kimchi was fortunate to be chosen to design and hand-craft the Torah ark (Aron Kodesh), Bimah and podium for this well endowed sanctuary which is located directly across from the Temple Mount itself.
The significance of the location is lost on no one, including Israel’s chief rabbi, the Rishon LiTzion, and Jerusalem mayor, Moche Leon, who participated in the dedication ceremony.
Dimensions: 400 cm x 605 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
One of the signature features in Kimchi’s cabinetry is his compositional approach. Nowhere is this better exemplified than in his Torah arks.
In this piece, towering over six meters tall, the massive proportions are subtly broken down into components of varying dimensions, each with its own detailing and hand-crafted sculpting. Between each segment he has introduced hidden lighting which further augments the sense of depth and drama.
The last photo shows the Aron Kodesh in the sanctuary together with the Bimah Kimchi also created.
Dimensions: 500 cm x 270 cm high
Materials: Cherry
This Torah ark is comprised of staggered bookcases leading up to the central cabinet, which is the ark itself. The hand-sculpted doors of the ark depict a bountiful sheaf with twelve stalks of wheat (to symbolize the twelve tribes). The staks of wheat are bound in the center, where the heart is. But each stalk then takes its own path. The bookcase doors have a sun ray motif emanating from the center to shine on the rest of the world.
This piece was installed in the Reut High School, Jerusalem.
Dimensions: 450 cm x 410 cm high
Materials: Cherry, maple and wenge
This sculptural extravaganza is definitely one of Kimchi’s most substantial Torah arks. The ark, along with the Torah reading table, or Bimah, and podium, was commissioned for a Yeshiva high school in Memphis, Tennessee.
The donor’s dream was to transform the old building into an invigorating and spiritually uplifting study hall/sanctuary.
The metamorphosis has been making waves ever since.
Parochet by Chana Gamliel.
Dimensions: 310 cm x 380 cm high
Materials: Cherry
This Torah ark has it all. There are two luscious columns sculpted in the round with podests below, hand-carved symbols for each of the Twelve Tribes, three levels of cornices with the middle one depicting the Tomb of Rachel, and the top one showing the Tablets atop Mount Sinai. On either side there are bookcases behind sculpted doors, and the whole piece fits around a custom made safe with sculpted wood covering the metal doors.
Dimensions: 560 cm x 90 cm x 305 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, is definitely one of Kimchi’s most impressive works. The piece spans almost the entire width of the east wall of the historic Av-Shalom Tel Aviv synagogue. The hand-sculpted themes on either side of the central cabinet lead the viewer’s eye contiguously up towards the temple in Jerusalem, while jumping from section to section. These sculpted panels are actually doors to custom-fitted bookcases.
The Bimah was designed to wrap around a supporting column which is located directly in front of the Torah ark. Now instead of being an eyesore, the column and Bimah complete and enhance the overall composition.
Dimensions: 220 cm x 320 cm high
Materials: Cherry
This ark was custom designed and created for the synagogue in Moshav Nov, in the Golan. Prior to designing this piece of synagogue furniture Kimchi spent time in the community getting to know the members of the congregation, the two rabbis and the members of the synagogue design and building committee. He also toured the nearby archaeological site Um al-knatir where an ancient synagogue from the Byzantine period has been unearthed and is under restoration. In his design for the ark Kimchi strove to incorporate the threshold motif common to all ancient synagogues in the Golan region. It can be seen as the cross beam which supports the sliding doors. In the middle of the beam he has introduced an additional element, representing the iconic steep ravines of the Golan cutting their way through the landscape towards the Sea of Galilee.
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Dimensions: 420 cm wide x 400 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
The return to Zion and the rejuvination of the land are both a biblical prophecy and a modern day reality. This Torah ark was commissioned for the synagogue in Sapir, a community located in the far south eastern part of Israel where the Jewish pioneers have reclaimed the desert and created an agricultural miracle. The verse chosen for this Aron Kodesh is from the Book of Isaiah and describes the wildreness rejoicing and blooming like a lily.
Dimensions: 360 cm x260 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
Sometimes a less than ideal setting can inspire the artist-designer to come up with an exceptional out of the box solution. Such was the case when Kimchi created this Aron Kodesh for a newly renovated Moroccan synagogue with a very low ceiling in Dimona, Israel.
The Aron Kodesh and accompanying Bimah were dedicated to the memory of a devoted member of the congregation who died in a car accident.
Dimensions: 400 cm x 340 cm high
Materials: Cherry
This Torah ark brings the wonderous vegetation of the Garden of Eden into the synagogue in a unique and flowing manner.
Dimensions: 280cm x 280 cm x 50 cm
Materials: Cherry
The Jews that arrived from Yemen just after the creation of the state of Israel arrived on a mission known as “On Eagles wings”. The name is taken from the biblical verse in the book of Exodus.
This ark, or Aron Kodesh, was made for a Yemenite congregation in the center of Israel. The sculpted motif hints at the outstretched wings of the eagles…and the divine spirit.
Dimensions: 270 cm x 240 cm high
Materials: Cherry
This Aron Kodesh was commissioned for a synagogue with an unusually low ceiling. The challenge was to create an inspiring piece that gives an uplifting feel despite the height limitation.
Kimchi chose to incorporate a three tiered design that adds depth and drama to the composition.
Dimensions: 280 cm x 80 cm x 305 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This richly carved Torah ark (Aron Kodesh) is replete with traditional Jewish symbols of holiness, but re-interpreted in Kimchi’s original, flowing style.
The Bimah and carved cabinet doors on the side complete this powerful composition. On either side of the Aron Kodesh there are also book cases that continue until the wall behind.
Ark Dimensions: 130 cm x 130 cm x 280 cm high
Materials: Cherry and wenge
The stark simplicity of this synagogue dictated a composition that bespoke both nobility and restraint. The aron kodesh has two doors which open to almost the entire diameter of the piece. The crown was designed to accommodate hidden lighting. The bimah and flower stands also serve to complement and spotlight the primary piece.
Dimensions: 305 cm wide x 70 cm deep x 320 cm high
Materials: Teak
In this monumental Aron Kodesh Kimchi sought to create a sense of uplifting drama through use of the undulating gap between the two halves of the supporting structure. The flowing form of the gap draws the eye upward towards the heavens. As it ascends it is bisected and juxtaposed by the square Torah cabinet which protrudes towards the front.
Dimensions: 440 cm x 320 cm high
Materials: Cherry, maple and colored glass
This aron kodesh was commissioned by a synagogue located in the Jerusalem foothills. The carvings on the cherry panels, in fact, depict the hills leading up to The Holy City, which can just be seen through the windows on the horizon. The congregation wanted to stress their connection to Jerusalem and chose this verse from Psalms. The massive central doors slide on runners to reveal the ark above and a separate storage section with additional wooden doors below.
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Dimensions: 250 cm x 380 cm high
Materials: Cherry and maple
The challenge here was to convert an old and rather nondescript synagogue into an uplifting place of worship by creating new synagogue furniture. Working within the confines of the existing stone structure I designed and created this aron kodesh to maximize the vertical aspect of the composition. The sign above has a verse hand-carved into it. The lectern is adorned with electrical lighting coming through the menorah.
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Dimensions: 750 cm x 80 cm x 222 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This intensively carved Torah ark (Aron Kodesh) was designed to be the center piece of an extensive collection of holy books.
Together with the Bimah this set of synagogue furnishings turned the sanctuary into a truly uplifting space
Dimensions:
Ark: 300 cm wide x 85 cm deep x 250 cm high
Bookcases: 70 cm wide
Materials: Mahogany
This Torah ark is multi-layered with four different depths. The piece juxtaposes different surface treatments to create a rich tapestry of textures. The generous overhang of the cornice adds a sense of awe to those who approach the ark.
Dimensions: 280 cm x wide x 510 cm high
Materials: Mahogany, LED lighting
This Torah ark was commissioned in memory of a Cohen (man of the Cohenic priestly line). The family members were intent on having this be expressed in the artwork. The three arcs above are inscribed with the priestly blessing, and the carved hands on either side reflect the gesture the Cohenim make during the blessing.
Dimensions: 180 cm x 280 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This Torah ark (Aron Kodesh) and Bimah duo was commissioned by the Kfar Shaul Mental Health Center in Jerusalem.
The staff wanted to have an ark that would truly touch the patients and allow them to connect to their synagogue experience in a very personal way.
Dimensions: 85 cm x 50 cm x 206 cm high
Materials: Maple
This Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, is an interesting variation on Kimchi’s single Torah arks. The carving on the hand-sculpted doors wraps subtly around onto either side, enhansing the three dimensional aspect of the piece. The inside of the door has an extra bit of carving to add interest when the door is open.
Dimensions: 220 cm wide x 90 cm x 320 cm high
Materials: Cherry, maple and purple heart
This Aron Kodesh was commissioned by a boarding school for underprivileged boys. They come from diverse ethnic back grounds, and difficult family situations. Over time they develop a sense of belonging to the community and come to see their schoolmates as family. This is the essence of the carving on the ark: each individual retaining his or her own identity while contributing to the overall sense of togetherness.
Dimensions: 280 cm wide x 280 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This Aron Kodesh was designed to adorn a Moroccan synagogue in Dimona, in the south of Israel.
Kimchi interweaved the flowing tree-like forms with a hint of North African design motifs.
In addition to the Aron Kodesh Kimchi designed and crafted an accompanying Bimah as well as a podium to complete the composition.
Dimensions: 210 cm wide x 65 cm deep x 215 cm high
Materials: Bubinga
This ark ( Aron Kodesh ) showcases some of the most significant and scenic sites in the Holy City and its environs. Hand-carved panel presents a different interpretation of the iconic locations. This piece of synagogue furniture was commissioned by the Ritz-Carlton luxury hotel, in Herziliya Pituach, Israel.
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Dimensions: 54 cm x 42 cm x 70 cm high
Materials: Mahogany, gold plated solid silver
This highly detailed aron kodesh is in fact a miniature. It is actually a functional piece of synagogue furniture, designed to house a 17 cm tall Torah parchment. The ark was commissioned as a gift to a well-known philanthropist. The design for this piece drew its inspiration from a 17th century Italian aron kodesh. The gold plated silver castings depict scenes from the western Wall in Jerusalem and the Tomb of the Fathers in Hebron. The design was done in cooperation with Bier Judaica Inc.
Dimensions: 220 cm x 280 cm high
Materials: Cherry and maple
This aron kodesh is made of columns of frame and raised panels, with the sculpted motif on the doors taking center stage. The theme depicted here is Mount Moriah and the heavens above. The verse quoted is taken from Genesis, where Abraham sighted the holy mountain from afar. The verse is hand carved with a chisel-textured backing and recessed lighting.
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Dimensions: 75 cm x 55 cm x 202 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
There is an increasing call for portable Torah arks, or Aronot Kodesh. Here is an example of one that is extremely easy to roll into position, while still retaining a unique, refined Kimchi aesthetic.
Dimensions: 70 cm wide x 70 cm deep x 240 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
Kimchi believes that getting outside the box is never so important as in synagogue art and furnishings.
In this case the whole Torah ark (Aron Kodesh) seems to be full of the breath of life, twisting and turning towards the heavens.
Dimensions: 110 cm x 55 cm x 220 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This small but action-packed Torah ark (Aron Kodesh) brings new meaning to the concept of flame.
It was commissioned by a small synagogue in Manhattan together with an accompanying Bimah.
Dimensions: 130 cm x 64 cm x 210 cm high
Materials: Mahogany, wenge
The hand-sculpted doors on this Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, really make the piece come to life. The wings on either side and the classic Kimchi geometry augment the sense of drama to this piece of synagogue furniture. The ark is fitted with high quality castors and can be moved easily into position each week for services.
Dimensions: 44 cm x 60 cm x 220 cm high
Materials: Cherry, maple
This labor of love was hand-sculpted by Kimchi in solid cherry with solid maple acting as a dramatic back-drop to the apertures.
The recess seperating top and bottom serves to allow one’s eye to bridge the gap, thus inviting the viewer to participate more actively.
Hidden lighting also augments the visual excitement of the piece.
Dimensions: 110 cm x 50 cm x 215 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
In this Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, Kimchi blends two recurring themes: The Tree of Life and the Eternal Flame. The two merge into one cohesive fluid form, drawing the eye – and the spirit – towards the heavens.
Dimensions: 90 cm x 60 cm x 220 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
There is often a need for a portable Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh. This piece was constructed in two halves, disassembled and crated, flown to the U.S. and reassembled quickly and easily on site with the accompanying hardware.
The ark is equipped with hidden high-quality wheels, and can be comfortably moved in and out of the sanctuary hall.
Dimensions: 80 cm wide x 56 cm x 212 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This portable Aron Kodesh (Torah ark) was commissioned by the Movement for Progressive Judaism. It was custom designed to be easily disassembled for transport to various functions such as retreats, seminars and conferences. An artistic interpretation of the movement’s logo is carved into the doors.
Dimensions: 70 cm wide x 54 cm deep x 125 cm high
Materials: Solid bubinga
This Torah Ark, or Aron Kodesh, was dedicated on the happy occasion of the Bar Mitzvah of a client’s son. The Bar Mitzvah took place on the holiday of Shavuot, which celebrates the giving of the Torah to the Jewish People. Themes of the holiday were incorporated in the hand-carved details, as was a special dedication in honor of the occasion.
Dimensions: 210 cm wide x 70 cm deep x 225 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
Here is an excellent example of how an old, steel safe can be transformed into a spiritually uplifting Aron Kodesh.
Through creative thinking Kimchi can allow even communities with limited budgets to dramatically upgrade their sanctuary space.
Dimensions: 115 cm x 115 cm x 215 cm high
Materials: Mahogany
This portable Torah ark, or Aron Kodesh, was commissioned for a Jewish summer camp, belonging to the “Noam” movement. The Hebrew word “Noam”, meaining pleasantness, is part of the verse inscribed on the cornice above. It is also incorporated into the hand-carved Tree of Life on the doors, which, incidentally, is in the shape of the youth movement’s logo.
Dimensions: 120 cm x 50 cm x 220 cm high
Materials: Bubunga, wenge and stained glass.
This Torah Ark, or Aron Kodesh, was commissioned by a client who recovered from cancer. She donated the piece as a gesture of thanks to the members of her community who supported her through her illness.
Dimensions: 140 cm wide x 65 cm deep x 230 cm high
Materials: Mapa burl and maple
This Aron Kodesh was commissioned for the opening of the first ever Synagogue in Kibboutz Sde Boker in the Negev Desert, Israel. Sde Boker is where Israel’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion lived and is buried. This kibboutz is infused with Ben Gurion’s vision for settling the desert and bringing it to bloom. The spiritual reawakening that is taking place there among some of its members adds an extra dimension to the thriving of life in the desert. The inscription carved into the crown cornice is from Psalms: “…my soul thirsteth for Thee…”
Dimensions: 55 cm wide x 42 cm deep x 210 cm high
Materials: Cherry and solid silver
In most cases, the aronot kodesh I create are large and dominant synagogue furniture pieces. This small ark was commissioned by a private collector in Toronto to house a unique Torah scroll. The theme of the piece is the Tree of Life. Each leaf was created by sculpting the form and then cutting out a hollow which was then filled by attaching a plate of hammered solid silver. Silver work executed by Bier Judaica Inc. of Jerusalem, Israel.
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Dimensions: 110 cm wide x 45 cm deep x 140 cm high
Materials: Cherry
Occasionally one comes across a client who really makes the artist look outside the box. This wall-hung aron kodesh is a case in point. The extreme bend of the contours in the form required use of challenging woodworking techniques. Neither was the sculpted front with the door cut into it a task for the weak of heart. In designing this ark Kimchi strove to create a piece that would invite the viewer to an ongoing dialogue. As one continues to observe the carving more and more birds come out of the woodwork.
Dimensions: 90 cm x 50 cm x 215 cm high
Materials: Maple, mahogany and wenge wood
This aron kodesh was commissioned by the Ritz Carlton hotel in Herziliya Pitouach, Israel. This ark is intended to serve the smaller synagogue for daily worship, while the “Scenes of Jerusalem Ark” he made is used in the larger hall for special occasions. This aron kodesh, being located in a rather confined space, needed to be compact, bright and cheerful. By implementing some of his trade mark positive/negative space design and using mainly a light-toned maple, kimchi was able to keep this synagogue furniture piece both practical and light.
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