This mezuzah case uses as its imagery the Tree of Life, in turn referring to the Torah which gives us a framework in which to live our lives. Ruth Shapiro handcrafts this case using the lost wax casting method. She first carves the design from a piece of wax which is then encased in a special plaster, and the wax burned out. The negative space is filled with molten bronze. It is then cracked out of the plaster, which is only used once. It is filed and polished, and a special solution is applied to develop the lovely green (verdegris) patina. This color varies and is not always exactly the same shade as pictured. It is then lacquered and waxed to discourage tarnish. Parchment sold separately. Click here for more information.
