For the first time in Israeli history, three rare archival photos documenting Purim celebrations in the Land of Israel, then Mandate Palestine, during the 1920s have been revealed. The photos, belonging to the Jewish National Fund (JNF) photography archive, showcase magical moments of children and adults celebrating the holiday in the Land of Israel.
The photos were taken long before costumes became a thriving industry and at a time when thousands of people filled the streets. These three photos were taken by photographer Samuel Joseph Schweig, one of the most famous photographers of the Yishuv during the early Zionist settlement period in the Land of Israel.
In the first photo, taken in March 1928, a small boy is seen dressed as a sailor, wearing a uniform and hat. The boy dressed up as a Jewish National Fund ship – which symbolized the Jewish people reaching their safe shore. In another photo, a boy appears dressed as a citrus fruit tree, a distinct Israeli and Zionist symbol. His costume is made of leaves and branches, and he is adorned with real oranges.
In the third photo, taken in 1926, a boy and girl are documented in original costumes – the girl is "split" in half – with half of her body in black clothing and half in white, while the boy is dressed in a dress decorated with Jewish symbols, including Stars of David and Jewish National Fund collection boxes. This photo reflects the creativity and how national values were expressed among the young people of that period.
"These photos take us back to the days before store-bought costumes, retail chain promotions, and glittery makeup," notes Efrat Sinai, Director of Archives at JNF. "In those days, Purim was celebrated with joy and creativity, and city center streets were filled with children and adults in handmade costumes, with spontaneous parades and dances."
The nostalgic photos provide a glimpse into the spirit of the era – the bright faces of the celebrants, the lovingly sewn costumes, many of which expressed national and collective messages related to the renewed settlement in the Land of Israel. JNF documented these sights, and we are happy to share these treasures preserved in our photo collection with the wider public."
