Mordechai Rosenstein

Mordechai Rosenstein (March 26, 1934 – July 9, 2024) was an American Jewish calligrapher and visual artist. A pioneer of contemporary Hebrew calligraphic art in the United States, he created more than 700 original works influenced by abstract expressionism and pop art. His work was exhibited internationally and commissioned by major Jewish institutions, including a presentation piece from B'nai B'rith International for Pope Benedict XVI.

Early life and education Rosenstein was born on March 26, 1934, in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to an American-born mother and a Russian immigrant father. He attended Akiba Hebrew Academy, later known as Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, and graduated as part of the school's first graduating class in 1951. While a student there, he began creating a Purim megillah using a self-taught method of Hebrew lettering. He later recalled that there were few local models or instructional materials available for Hebrew scribal art in Philadelphia. Beginning in 2003, Barry Magen joined him as a business partner, helping operate the Rosenstein Gallery and work with synagogues, organizations, and private buyers.

His work appeared in Jewish communities across the United States and abroad, including exhibitions and presentations in Zurich, Hong Kong, and London. Another popular work depicted a physician's oath attributed to Maimonides, combining Hebrew and English text with a stylized portrait of the medieval rabbinic and medical figure.

Personal life and death

Rosenstein was married to Mati Kaufman Rosenstein. They had two children, Judah Rosenstein and Lisa Rosenstein.

Rosenstein died on July 9, 2024, in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, at the age of 90. He was survived by his wife, his two children, and two grandchildren.