The
Five Books of Moses  Washington Hebrew Congregation Washington, DC Art Consultant: Elizabeth Michaels Associates, Falls Church, Virginia Five @ 7.83' x 11.25' (2.4 x 3.4 m) During my first analysis of the existing entrance to the synagogue's main lobby, I observed the strong verticality of the various elements comprising the exterior façade except for distracting horizontal mullions that divided the five plate glass windows into thirds. In my preliminary design I recommended that these mullions be replaced with single, vertical ones to better harmonize with other elements. A detailed exploration of these windows,
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Recipient of the highest Honor Award
from the AIA's Interfaith Forum on Religion Art and Architecture |
 Exodus Each stained glass window at Washington Hebrew Congregation's main entrance represents one of the five books of Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers or Deuteronomy). Many aspects of each book are represented in the corresponding window through an abstract and richly narrative design. The conceptual "threads" used to unify and connect the five windows are the Origins and History of the Jewish People, God's Special Relationship with His People, and the Torah as the Written Record of these "Threads". Numbers 
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 Genesis 
Leviticus Deuteronomy 
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The diverse glass palette (including transparent, opal and opak mouth-blown glass, dichroic glass, and cast lenses) provides a dynamic, ever-changing experience whether viewing the windows from the street, sidewalk, or inside the synagogue. Intriguing reflections seen in the polished granite columns, wall, and floors integrate the stained glass windows with their architectural surroundings.
 click above image for a larger view |
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