Gathered from across the centuries and around the world, this collection of Passover art and objects is at once a breath-taking visual treasury and a fascinating chronicle of Jewish life from the Middle Ages to the present day. Featured are illustrations from some of the most beautiful haggadahs ever crafted. From the German Bird's Head Haggadah and the Spanish Golden Haggadah of the 14th century to those illustrated by contemporary artists such as painter Ben Shahn. Equally striking and diverse is the selection of seder table items. From Poland, there is a folk-inspired three-tiered seder set of brass and wood; from Germany, an elaborate ivory kiddush cup; and from China, a meticulously embroidered silk afikomen pouch. A seder plate used in the concentration camp at Terezin is a moving reminder of the darkest period in Jewish history.

Paintings depicting Passover customs and liturgy represent works that span the ages, from "The Search for Leaven," painted by an 18th-century French Protestant in Amsterdam, to Larry Rivers' "The History of Matzah," a modern day series capturing the joy of the Passover celebration.

Rabbi Stephan O. Parnes offers insightful explanations of the religious, biblical, and historical symbols found in the pieces. Entertaining and informative commentaries by Bonnie-Dara Michaels and Gabriel M. Goldstein examine the works from an artistic perspective, complementing the illustrations and enhancing our appreciation and understanding of this very special holiday.