Attributed to Joseph Keller

These two “scraps” combine Jewish and American imagery to depict the refuge awaiting immigrants from Eastern Europe. In the image above, Lady Liberty—wearing a hat with “America” printed in Hebrew characters on it—unlocks the gates of America’s shores for Jewish immigrants. The Hebrew inscription translates as “Open the gates of righteousness for me . . . Open the gates, and let a righteous nation enter” (Ps. 118:19, Isa. 26:2). In the first image on below, American Jews welcome with open arms their East European brethren from across the ocean. We have placed the lead image below the second image so that they may be seen on the screen at the same time to allow you to compare the two images. 

Both images feature an American eagle bearing a crest with the stars and stripes hovering above. In the scrap on the right the eagle clutches a banner proclaiming King David’s plea, “Hide me in the shadow of your wings [from the wicked who oppress me]” (Ps. 17:8); it faces a double-headed eagle with a crown and scepter, symbolizing Czarist Russia.

Embossed chromolithographed “scraps” such as these were used by publishing companies to create elaborate greeting cards. They were also purchased by individuals as collectibles or for use in constructing personalized cards. 

New York: Hebrew Publishing Co., 1909

Chromolithograph

Postcard Collection