Home > Popular Themes > Money
Jewish Money Lender
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Jewish Money Lender
The money tree of a Jewish money lender is watered by gold and overdue debts Date: 1868
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14289401
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1868 Debts Jewish Lender Lenders Money Watered
EDITORS COMMENTS
This intriguing photograph, taken in 1868, captures the image of a Jewish money lender tending to his unique money tree. The money tree, a symbol of wealth and prosperity in Jewish folklore, is brought to life in this image. The tree is not an actual tree but rather a metaphorical representation of the lender's wealth, which is believed to have grown from the interest accrued on loans. The money lender is shown in the foreground, dressed in traditional Jewish attire, with a serious expression on his face as he attends to the tree. The tree is watered not with water but with gold coins and overdue debts, symbolizing the source of his wealth. The gold coins represent the principal amount of the loans, while the overdue debts represent the interest. The money lending trade was an essential part of Jewish history and community life, particularly in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. Jewish money lenders played a significant role in providing credit to the working classes, who often lacked access to traditional banking institutions. However, the trade was also subject to much prejudice and discrimination, with Jewish money lenders being stereotyped and stigmatized as exploitative and greedy. Despite the negative stereotypes, this photograph offers a glimpse into the daily life of a Jewish money lender during this period, revealing the human side of a trade that played a crucial role in the economic and social fabric of European communities. The money tree is a powerful symbol of the lender's wealth and success, but it also serves as a reminder of the complex and often contentious relationship between lenders and borrowers in Jewish history.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
