What is the difference between a Gedolim painting, a drawing, and a Gedolim picture or photo?
A Gedolim picture or photo is usually a reproduction of an archival photograph — a printed or framed image of the gadol. A Gedolim drawing is an original artwork in charcoal or pencil, created by an artist using reference imagery. A Gedolim painting is done in oils, acrylic, or watercolor — also an artist-made work, not a photo reproduction. At Joodaic, all pieces are artist-made portraits, not photographic prints. The distinction matters because the finish, texture, and presence on the wall are entirely different.
What formats are available for Gedolim portraits?
Gedolim portraits at Joodaic are available in several formats: charcoal and pencil drawings, oil and acrylic paintings, watercolor pieces, and mixed-media works that combine print with hand-finished elements. Modern format options include wood, metal, and glass. Most pieces are available as fine art prints from the original, framed or unframed, as well as original one-of-a-kind works.
Which Gedolim and Rebbes are available?
The collection spans Litvish gedolim, Chassidic Rebbes, and Sephardic rabbanim. Portraits may include Rav Chaim Kanievsky, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the Chofetz Chaim, Rav Ovadia Yosef, Reb Shayele of Kerestir, the Chazon Ish, and others, depending on current artist inventory. Browse the collection to see what is available. If you are looking for a specific figure not currently listed, you can commission a portrait through the commissions hub.
What is the difference between an original painting and a print?
An original painting is a one-of-a-kind work created directly by the artist — there is only one. A print is a high-quality reproduction of an original, available in multiple sizes at a more accessible price. Mixed-media pieces sit between the two: they begin as a print but receive hand-finished details from the artist, such as texture, paint, or gold leaf, that make the piece feel elevated and three-dimensional. Most homes use prints or mixed-media for everyday spaces; originals are usually chosen when someone wants a more central or lasting piece.
Are Gedolim portraits suitable as gifts?
Yes. Gedolim portraits are among the most personal Jewish gifts available — particularly for bar mitzvahs, yahrzeits, and milestone occasions. A portrait of someone's own Rebbe or rav carries meaning that a general gift does not. For a bar mitzvah, a portrait connected to the boy's family tradition or yeshiva tends to feel more personal. For a yahrzeit, a portrait of the gadol being commemorated can be very meaningful. Mixed-media and framed originals work especially well as formal gifts.
Can I commission a portrait of a specific Rebbe or Gadol?
Yes. If the figure you are looking for is not currently available in the collection, you can message an artist directly through their profile or submit a request through the commissions hub, where you can specify the subject, size, style, and overall direction of the piece. Charcoal drawings and paintings are both available as commissioned work.