The Artless Jew: Medieval and Modern Affirmations and Denials of the Visual by Kalman P. Bland

The Artless Jew challenges the conventional wisdom that Judaism is indifferent or hostile to the visual arts. Through an intellectual history of medieval and modern Jewish attitudes, Kalman Bland synthesizes evidence from philosophy, mysticism, poetry, and law to show that premodern Jewish intellectuals held a positive understanding of the Second Commandment and articulated a distinct Jewish aesthetic. This book not only overturns modern assumptions but also explores how these historical views inform contemporary ideas about Jewish art and identity, intertwined with debates over Zionism, integration, and anti-Semitism. /n/n Bland's work establishes a new assessment of Jewish aesthetic theory, rooted in historical analysis. It identifies authentic Jewish traditions of painting, sculpture, and architecture, making it a groundbreaking volume that will impact several disciplines, including Jewish studies, art history, and philosophy. The book's use of the past to illuminate the present and vice versa offers a fresh perspective on Jewish cultural heritage.

Reviews

Academia.edu · Ilia Rodov · 2006-01-01

praise 4.50

The review praises the book's exploration of Jewish attitudes towards art, noting its significant contribution to the field. It is seen as a valuable addition to the discourse on Jewish aniconism.

Ilia Rodov's review of 'The Artless Jew' is highly complimentary, highlighting the book's thorough exploration of Jewish attitudes towards art and representation. Rodov appreciates the author's nuanced approach and the depth of historical analysis presented. The review suggests that the book makes a significant contribution to the field, offering new insights into the cultural and intellectual history of Jewish aniconism. Rodov's praise is tempered with a recognition of the complexities involved, making the review both engaging and informative. This perspective is particularly valuable for those interested in the intersection of art, culture, and religion.

Quick quotes

It investigates the social origins, intellectual moorings, and cultural implications of Jewish aniconism.

This intellectual history of medieval and modern Jewish attitudes toward art and representation overturns the modern assumption of Jewish iconophobia that ...

Without succumbing to essentialist notions of a Jewish aesthetic, Bland's citations make precisely the other claim: that Jews have always admired and produced.

Academia.edu · Gerald J. Blidstein · 2001-01-01

insightful 4.00

The work explores key themes in Jewish aniconism while noting potential oversights in the role of Halakhah. It provides a nuanced perspective on the cultural implications of Jewish attitudes towards art.

Gerald J. Blidstein's review delves into the intricate themes presented in 'The Artless Jew', highlighting the author's examination of Jewish aniconism. Blidstein appreciates the depth of the analysis but also points out areas where the role of Halakhah could have been more thoroughly addressed. The review suggests that the book offers valuable insights into the cultural and intellectual moorings of Jewish attitudes towards visual representation, making it a significant contribution to the field. Blidstein's critique is balanced, acknowledging the strengths of the work while also suggesting areas for further exploration.

Quick quotes

The review highlights several key themes in Bland's work while also addressing potential oversights regarding the role of Halakhah and the broader spectrum of ...

It investigates the social origins, intellectual moorings, and cultural implications of Jewish aniconism.

This intellectual history of medieval and modern Jewish attitudes toward art and representation overturns the modern assumption of Jewish iconophobia that ...

ResearchGate · Michael Batterman · 2001-01-01

critical 3.00

The book is seen as out of step with current scholarship and does not significantly impact its central argument. The review suggests a need for more alignment with contemporary research.

Michael Batterman's review of 'The Artless Jew' presents a critical perspective, arguing that the book's central argument does not align well with the growing body of scholarship by cultural and art historians. Batterman points out that while the book makes a valuable contribution, it misses the mark in engaging with more recent research. This critique highlights the importance of staying current with scholarly developments, suggesting that the book could have benefited from a more nuanced engagement with contemporary debates. Batterman's review is thoughtful and constructive, offering a balanced view of the book's strengths and weaknesses.

Quick quotes

Not only is it out of step with a growing body of scholarship by cultural historians and art historians, but it also has no bearing on Bland's central argument.

The evidence told a different story, one that did not conform to the master plot of Jewish aniconism.

Without succumbing to essentialist notions of a Jewish aesthetic, Bland's citations make precisely the other claim: that Jews have always admired and produced.

Appears in Lists

54 Essential Books in Jewish Studies