Prague - Old Jewish Cemetery

Prague. A Section of the Old Jewish Cemetery. Published by Photobrom, Vienna, 1907. Posted on 23 April 1908.

Aside from the Western Wall of the temple complex in Jerusalem, the old Jewish cemetery in Prague is, rather disconcertingly, the motif that appears by far and away most frequently on Jewish-themed postcards still in circulation among collectors. The impressive tomb at the heart of image is that of Mordecai Maisel (1528–1601), a wealthy merchant, community leader and philanthropist who played a significant role in facilitating the growth of Prague’s Jewish community and promoting its religious, cultural and social institutions. Following his death, all his assets were confiscated by the authorities.