For our second day of #archweek16, we’re traveling from Pasadena, California to the bayou. The Chasset Decorative Angle Bracket, a recent add to Federal Brace’s Low Profile Line, is named for the Shangarai Chasset (meaning Gates of Mercy), a nineteenth-century synagogue based in New Orleans. As part of the burgeoning territory of Louisiana, the Shangarai Chasset was initially housed in a blacksmith’s shop, but through hard work and the determination of the congregation, was able to build their own structure in the mid-1800’s. The building was located on N. Rampart Street, and, as it is the single oldest synagogue in Louisiana and among the oldest in the United States, has no recognized architect or designer. Rather, its founders and rabbis are recognized, Jacob Solis, Manis Jacobs, Albert Marks and a few others. The Chasset Support features a fleur de lis, a symbol of perfection and everlasting life, and also a design frequently associated with New Orleans. The fleur de lis shows up in architecture throughout the world and promises to be a lasting sign throughout the ages. Find out more at www.federalbrace.com.
Photos courtesy of Federal Brace and the Jewish American Society
