It is customary to cover the loaves of hallah with a cloth until they are eaten. Several explanations are offered for this practice: the bread, our staple food, should not be offended that the blessing over wine is said first; the manna, which the loaves symbolize, was found covered with dew; and, finally, this sanctified food should be given a measure of respect.
This hallah cover was brought to America by the donor's mother when she emigrated from the Greek island of Corfu in 1913. Home to a Jewish community of long standing, Corfu attracted powers from east and west and for centuries was under the political and cultural influence of Venice.