Ernest Levy standing in front of family photos reading

Category

Library Item

Item no

24159

Title

Ernest Levy standing in front of family photos reading

Description

Ernest Levy, wearing a kippah, stands reading a book. In front of him is a table on which is laid two silver ceremonial candlesticks and a silver cup. Behind him is a mantelpiece on which rests several cards. To his right are hung several framed family photographs. Between these photos is a hanging light with a gold Star of David on it.

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1990

Type

Photograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

Ernest Levy's faith was a great pillar of support for him even in the most difficult times of his life. When asked where he though God was when he was suffering in the Nazi camps he said "God was down in the dust with me". He lost much of his family in the holocaust but he and those who survived, remembered and prayed for them.

Ernest Levy was a holocaust survivor who after the war settled in Scotland. Originally from Bratislava he spent 48 years in Glasgow where he became a leading figure in the Scottish Jewish community. He spoke out about his experiences throughout his life, knowing that his testimony would help future generations remember this terrible time in history. For these efforts Ernest was made an O.B.E in 2002.

On his passing in 2009 his large collection of books, manuscripts and music were donated to Edinburgh City Libraries by his daughter Judy.

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Related subjects

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Hats

Furnishings > Furniture > Tables

Furnishings > Ornamentation > Lanterns

People > Adults > Men

Sport and leisure > Activities > Reading and books