Showing 2 results

Photographic essay by Liliane Aberman depicting the making of 'Shmura Matzo' at a Montreal factory. Three flyers advertising 'Shmura Matzos.'

Of her work, the artist states, "In March 1995, a few days before Passover, I was introduced to the matza factory. The factory, prepares Shmura matza and was at this time in the accelerated tempo of full production. I was fascinated by the sights and sounds of this industrious place especially because it seemed to emerge out of a bygone era. Everything here is done by hand, untouched by the mechanization of the western world.

As I observed the work in progress, it seemed to me that I was a spectator at a ballet of sorts where each individual fit into a perfectly orchestrated series of steps. There are no extraneous movements and no wasted time, as each batch of matza must be prepared within 14 min.

These photographs are a selection of the images taken at the matza factory and record the process of preparing the matza." - Liliane Aberman

Transcription of the letter:

"Montreal 17th April 1775
Sir,
I am favord with your’s of the 13th and inconformity I waited on the Israelite, his answer was he had not one bushel belonging to Rachel’s maid’s son the Farquesite, and in case the Israelite had wheat, none of the sons of Christ, could expect it at present, as it is against the Law of Moses to do Business during the time of the Passover and circumcision_Aaron’s son Hay is now incamping and boating up on the South Side I am told under your Standard – I remain –

Sir
Your most humble servant
Richard Dobie"