The "Ketubbah" - Jewish Marriage Contract

This photo was taken at the Israel Museum, Jerusalem

The Ketubbah is a Jewish written marriage contract by which a man commits himself to specific obligations (including financial) towards his wife during their marriage and also in the event of divorce or widowhood. In essence, it was more of a prenuptial agreement. Not many other religions make provision for women in event of divorce or widowhood in the marriage contract.

Jewish exiles from Portugal and Spain illustrated the marriage contract and elevated the art to a highly elaborate level. This tradition of decorated marriage contracts spread around the work with differing local styles and motifs. 

The Ketubbah was considered legal and binding.