Saul Mandel (1926 - 2011) "Hanukkah" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the 32c Hanukkah stamp issued October 22, 1996. A central feature of the Hanukkah celebration is the Hanukkah lamp -- also known as hanukkiyyah. This light-bearing implement has eight branches and a ninth holder for the shammash, or helper candle and is similar to the seven-branched candelabrum (menorah) of the Jewish Tabernacle. The seven-branched menorah held spiritual significance for the Israelites and represented -- among other things -- the seven days of creation. The central shaft was slightly higher than the others to signify the Sabbath. The image of the candelabrum has been found on a variety of archeological remnants including sculptures, paintings, tombstones, bottles, lamps, amulets and rings. Hanukkah lamps have been made from many materials throughout the ages, such as stone, bronze, brass and silver. They have also taken on diverse shapes and forms. Many were circular or mounted against a back-wall, while others were designed in the typical candelabra form. Ornately decorated Hanukkah lamps have also been discovered in many regions of Europe and Asia. Today, the hanukkiyyah and the menorah are used as religious symbols, particularly in synagogue art, including wall paintings, stained glass windows and mosaics. The State of Israel recognizes the menorah as an iconographic symbol signifying Judaism. Image Size: 11.25 x 10 in. Overall Size: 17 x 11 in. Unframed. (B15414)