Edmund Krenn (1846-1902) – The Altneuschul Synagogue in Prague, 1892 – Watercolor on Paper

Edmund Krenn (1846-1902), the Altneuschul synagogue in Prague, 1892.
Watercolor on paper. Signed and dated.
The oldest active synagogue in Europe, the Altneuschul synagogue in Prague was built in 1270 in Gothic style. The synagogue was originally called "Neu Schul" (new synagogue), and later became "the Altneuschul" (old-new synagogue). According to legend, the name of the synagogue comes from the Hebrew "al tenai" (on condition); the synagogue was allegedly built using stones from the Temple in Jerusalem, on condition they be returned when the Messiah comes. The Maharal of Prague prayed in this synagogue and instituted unique customs there. According to folklore, the Golem of Prague created by the Maharal was buried in the genizah in the attic of the synagogue.
Approx. 60X44 cm. Good condition. Minor defects and stains. In a 75X59 cm frame, unexamined outside of frame. Minor defects to frame.