Colchester Castle Museum is set to showcase a remarkable artefact with deep ties to the city's medieval past: the Bodleian Bowl. This historical object, associated with the medieval Jewish community in England, will be on display from 27 September to 27 January.
Discovered in a disused moat in Norfolk during the late 1600s, the Bodleian Bowl has a storied history that connects it to Colchester through a possible association with Rabbi Joseph, son of Rabbi Yechiel, who gifted it to the local congregation. The artifact bears Hebrew inscriptions, which would have identified its owners as Jewish – a significant challenge around the time of the Edict of Expulsion in 1290. The edict expelled all Jewish people from England, meaning many had to flee or convert to Christianity.
The display aims to highlight a lesser-known aspect of Colchester's history and foster a deeper understanding of medieval Jewish life in the region. Working closely with the contemporary Jewish community in Colchester, the museum seeks to explore and celebrate this important cultural heritage.
Councillor Natalie Sommers, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Heritage and Public Protection, said: “The Bodleian Bowl represents an invaluable addition to our cultural heritage. This spotlight display not only explores the lives of medieval Jewish communities in Colchester, but also underscores the positive relationships they had within our city. By showcasing this artefact, we honour our city's diverse history and deepen our understanding of its rich tapestry of communities.”
For more information about the Bodleian Bowl display and related events, please contact Ben Paites, Collections + Learning Curator at Colchester Museums, via email: ben.paites@colchester.gov.uk.
Page last reviewed: 14 August 2024