Archie Granot Papercut Ketubahs

A ketubah by Jerusalem artist Archie Granot is comprised of two parts; the actual ketubah (contractual text) and the papercut decoration (border).

Granot works closely with the couple to create a ketubah that will be treasured for generations to come. The procedure is as follows: The couple may choose to give the artist a completely free hand, or they can decide on basic design elements including style (traditional or modern), color and shape (for example, rectangular text with a rectangular border or circular text within a square border) while still giving the artist a free hand to create an aesthetic work of art. The contractual text has to be approved by the officiating Rabbi.

Only after the text is written out can the papercut border be designed. One-of-a-kind, handcut and multi-layered, the decoration usually contains Hebrew texts as an integral part of the design. These texts should be meaningful to the couple. For example, they may reference particular blessings or biblical passages which, in turn, may reference love or commitment. The artist can provide suggestions and will work with the couple to select appropriate text.

The size of the completed work is a function of shape, size and wording of the contractual text and the shape and design of the decoration. As an indication, a rectangular work can measure in the vicinity of 37 cm wide by 50 cm long with text approximating 18 cm wide by 28 cm long. A square papercut decoration framing round text may measure 40 cm by 40 cm with the text encapsulated in a circle with a diameter of 20 cm. Again, these are only indications and may vary according to personal taste and budget. However, maximum size is limited by the size of paper available.

A ketubah may take up to two months to complete, and can be shipped anywhere in the world.

Contact Archie Granot for more information about ordering a commissioned, one-of-a-kind, custom ketubah.

His work is absolutely stunning.