Marc Chagall Hadassah Windows Souvenir Plaque - Tribe of Simeon

This item is a decorative souvenir plaque featuring a photographic reproduction of the 'Tribe of Simeon' stained glass window, originally designed by Marc Chagall for the Abbell Synagogue at the Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center in Jerusalem. The item consists of a printed decal or paper image applied to an arched panel, which is then mounted onto a rectangular, dark-stained wooden base with a textured grain. The imagery showcases Chagall’s signature dreamlike style, dominated by vibrant blues, yellows, and reds, featuring symbolic motifs such as stylized animals and floating forms set within a geometric lead-line grid. The physical construction appears to be a mass-produced commemorative piece rather than an original artwork or architectural element. The condition is generally good, showing some minor surface scuffing on the wooden mount and slight edge wear on the central image application. These windows were originally inaugurated in 1962, suggesting this replica was likely produced in the late 20th century as a religious or cultural souvenir. The craftsmanship is standard for commercial giftware, with the primary value residing in the iconic subject matter and its association with the renowned artist.

Based on my visual examination of this Marc Chagall 'Tribe of Simeon' souvenir plaque, I have determined it to be a mass-produced commemorative item rather than a fine art print or an original architectural element. The piece features a photographic decal applied to an arched panel and mounted on a standard dark-stained wood base, a format common for religious giftware sold at the Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center or associated museum shops. The condition appears fair to good; while the vibrant blues and yellows of Chagall’s design remain striking, there is visible edge wear on the central decal and minor abrasions on the wooden mount, which are consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century decorative objects. This item lacks the textured layering of a lithograph or the transparency of actual stained glass, which limits its appeal to the general souvenir market. Demand for such pieces is steady among collectors of Judaica and Chagall enthusiasts, but since these were produced in large quantities, they lack rarity. Comparable sales for similar Hadassah window plaques typically fall within the $40 to $100 range depending on the specific tribe depicted and the condition of the mount. It is important to note that this appraisal is based on digital images alone. A physical inspection would be required to verify the substrate material (e.g., plastic vs. ceramic) and to ensure there is no significant UV fading or adhesive failure. For a definitive valuation, provenance documentation—such as an original purchase receipt from the Hadassah Medical Center—would be beneficial, though unlikely to significantly elevate the value beyond its current status as a nostalgic cultural memento.