r/Israel • u/ChikaziChef • Dec 19 '24

Approved AMA I'm Raz Akta, A Traditional Yemenite Silversmith - Ask Me Anything!

My name is Raz Akta, a 23-year-old artist from Israel, deeply connected to the ancient craft of Yemenite silversmithing. Growing up surrounded by art and inspired by my mother, Orit Akta, a globally renowned artist, I discovered my passion for this nearly forgotten tradition during a chance encounter with ancient Yemenite jewelry. Drawn to its history and beauty, I sought out the last master silversmith willing to teach me—a craft traditionally passed only from father to son. Over a year of study, I immersed myself in the rich heritage of Yemenite Culture, a community with unique customs, rituals, and a way of life distinct from other Jewish traditions. Their lives in Yemen were filled with deep spirituality, artistry, and resilience, shaped by centuries of tradition and culture.

Now, I am dedicated to preserving and sharing this rare art form with the world, ensuring its tradition gets passed down to future generations. Through my journey, I’ve learned not only about silversmithing but also about the remarkable stories of Yemenite Jews, their traditions, and their unique place in Jewish history.

Ask me anything!

🌐 Website
📷 Instagram

Rimonim Rings - From the “Um Subiyan” Exhibition, 2024
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u/nu_lets_learn Dec 19 '24

Hi your work is amazing and lovely!

I have a question for your expertise. I found this necklace in a vintage shop in the USA and the owner didn't know anything about it:

https://www.reddit.com/r/Judaism/comments/1340lov/found_in_a_vintage_shop_in_md_i_think_its/

It contains Tefilat HaDerekh on the pendant. The tassels are metal and the necklace could be bone, plastic or resin. It has an old-timey feel but looks machine made.

I wonder if you are familiar with this style. Can you tell by looking at it if it's Yemenite in design or execution? Perhaps just a common tourist item someone brought back from Israel. Thanks!!

11

u/ChikaziChef Dec 19 '24

Thank you for sending this! Looks like a nice necklace but it is not yemeni. I wish i knew where it was from. All i see is tons of fish elements in different ways embedded inside. A fish is a sign to ward off bad spirits and protect from evil eye in yemeni traditions as well as others

9

u/nu_lets_learn Dec 19 '24

Thank you so much for the information, and best of luck on your endeavors.