The history of the kippah (or yarmulke for our American cousins) reaches far back into antiquity.
In the earliest times Jews wore a variety of head-coverings for practical as well as religious reasons but by the 19th Century the wearing of a kippah, day-to-day and especially when at prayer, became near-universal.
In all that time the traditional skull-cap has taken many forms, from a simple circle of cloth to quite elaborate designs featuring football team colours and even the Star Wars logo.
But artist Toks Daniel has designed what he believes to be the most dazzling yet: it is encrusted with over 3,500 sparkling Swarovski crystals and surmounted with a two carat D colour flawless diamond.
Daniel says: “Whilst I was a youngster in Nigeria, Jews had a rather exotic image. The more I have since been exposed to Jews and Judaism, the more I have become enamoured with its rituals, principles and aesthetics.
“My yarmulke design is a manifestation of my enchantment with the religion.”
The blingiest kippah in history has been released via luxury shopping site VeryFirstTo.com in time for Chanukah, so if you were thinking of agonising over a gift for the man (or indeed woman) who has everything, then your present dilemma is solved.
As long as you have a spare £125,000 ($167,000) handy, of course.
Marcel Knobil, founder of VeryFirstTo, Superbrands and Cool BrandLeaders says: “This remarkable yarmulke is simultaneously a spectacular item of headwear and a scintillating work of art.
“However, we can’t guarantee that it enhances the likelihood of one's prayers being answered!”
While we might normally recommend modesty and humility in religious matters, it’s important to note that the vendors have promised that they will make a £1,000 donation to Chabad Lubavitch of Nigeria from the proceeds of the sale.
The charity provides for the spiritual welfare of the Jewish community in Nigeria as well as promoting understanding, respect and diversity.
Please let us know via our Facebook page if you decide to buy this one-off item. We’d love to know where it ends up.
