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Stephanie Rosman ’06 (Egg Harbor Township, N.J.) and her family have been attending services at Congregation Beth Israel in Northfield, N.J. for over 15 years but she didn’t think twice about its ornamentation until she took a Byzantine art class taught by Ida Sinkevic, associate professor of art.
After Rosman learned about the limitations placed on Jewish art due to the second commandment, “thou shall not make graven images or false idols,” she sought to find out why stained glass windows at her local temple seemingly defied this covenant with God.
In her research, she observes that modern and ancient synagogue decoration, illuminated manuscripts, and Judicia pieces have not always followed the commandment. At Congregation Beth Israel, the windows demonstrate symbolism and biblical themes similar to Christian art.
“[My paper] argues that these windows are not an example of Jewish deviance, despite the apparent Christian appearance,” states Rosman’s abstract. “Rather, the windows are placed within the context of Jewish art and seen as an illustration of the theological complexity of God’s word. The windows are also seen as an expression of the religion’s dedication to its own preservation.”
She was invited to present her thesis at the Art History Symposium at Bucknell University this March.
Rosman, a double major in art and government and law, says that her adviser Sinkevic has served as her inspiration throughout her college career.
“After taking her intro art history class sophomore year, I immediately signed up to study abroad in Florence, and that semester was one of the greatest times of my life,” explains Rosman. “She is responsible for my love of art history. I really enjoyed the opportunity to work with her.”
She adds that Hebrew Bible instructorRobert L. Cohn, Berman Professor of Jewish Studies, was also helpful and offered addition advice on her work.
Sinkevic praises Rosman and is glad she made an impact on her academic endeavors.
“Stephanie is a smart, energetic, and hard-working young woman and I am sure that she will succeed in any field that she might choose as her career path,” says Sinkevic. “Her thesis reveals serious research and innovative ideas.”
“I also feel honored that my lectures inspired her work,” she adds. “Inspiring students to venture into new intellectual pursuits is one of the most wonderful and gratifying aspects of my job as a teacher.”
Other students conducting honors theses in art history this year include Sara Nersesian ’06 (Sparta, N.J.) a double major in art and English, advised by Robert Mattison, Metzgar Professor of Art History; and Trustee Scholar Samuel Hetzel ’06 (Metuchen, N.J.) a double major in biology and art, advised by Nicole Fabricand-Person, assistant professor of art.
For the first time, art history students presented their theses to be reviewed by peers and faculty in all facets of the art department. Traditionally only studio majors were reviewed but twice this year art history students were given the opportunity to gain extra advice in the fall and spring semesters.
Curlee Raven Holton, professor and head of art, notes the joint reviews are meant to encourage a dialogue between students.
“I found them to be helpful in the first semester for recommendations on reading material or subjects/themes to consider for the final thesis,” says Neresian. “Having the two presentations was a good exercise in public speaking and preparation that will undoubtedly aid me in the final defense.”
Rosman adds, “It was a good opportunity to get some feedback from the department, and I liked hearing about my classmates’ projects as well.”
Neresian is a writing associate and writing associate mentor. She serves as head resident for Watson, Soles, and Kirby halls, and is director of S.P.E.A.K. (Students and Professors Engaging in Active Kommunication). In addition, she was a volunteer for Meals at Third Street, and Arts and Crafts at Third Street.
Rosman is a member of the women’s varsity tennis team and Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. Previously, she served as an orientation leader. After graduation Rosman plans to move to New York City and pursue a marketing career in the sports industry.
Honors theses are among several major programs that have made Lafayette a national leader in undergraduate research. The College sends one of the largest contingents to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research each year; 40 students were accepted to present their research at this year’s conference.