This miniature ark for home use was designed as a small temple within a sacred precinct that is defined by a low wall of openwork. Four small pinnacles mark the corners, and two tall columns flank the entry. The building rises from a raised platform approached by steps. It is hexagonal and roofed by a ribbed dome and projecting finial. Appliqued Stars of David decorate each panel of the main dome, and cast scroll ornaments overlay the juncture of the ribs and the architrave, except at the front, where appear the Tablets of the Law. The sides of the building are richly ornamented with tapestry-like design of birds and foliage. All of these elements are mounted on a wooden base with ball feet. The textile panels set in the doors are embroidered with Stars of David and quotations from the penitential prayer Avinu malkenu, recited on fast days and during the Ten Days of Penitence between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. At right, [Hebrew text] (“Our Father, our King, hear our voice, have pity and compassion upon us”); at left, [Hebrew text] (“Our Father, our King, open the gates of heaven to our prayer”).

Various types of miniature Torah arks have survived, but these are usually cabinets. This Danzig example is interesting for its development as an architectural complex. A comparison with the 17th- century tower of the Brigittenkirche in Danzig reveals that the turret of the ark is closely modeled after it and that this Torah ark must therefore have been made in Danzig. The chased decoration of the sides is similar in theme to that of the book cover, (D 282), but the forms on the ark are more elegantly designed and finer in execution. A pair of small brass candlesticks in the collection (D 101a-b), was once used together with this ark.