Neo-Solomonic Palladianism: Touro Synagogue and Its Women's Balcony, Newport, Rhode Island

abstract:Touro Synagogue stands as a statement of deeply held beliefs in a modern interpretation of Jewish principles and in the importance of classical architecture. The design's incorporation of both neo-Solomonic themes and Palladian principles placed it on the cutting edge of synagogue design in the Atlantic world. While seemingly separate, these two systems converge symbolically in the synagogue's women's balcony. Following contemporary neo-Solomonic principles, the balcony was a key component in the creation of numerological relationships among the parts of the building. At the same time, it also established architectural balance within the progression of Palladian elements. As a pivotal space in both theories, the women's balcony inserted women into the process of Judaic worship in a way that reflected the values of open-mindedness and inclusion inherent in Newport's Jewish community. It also placed them at the heart of two larger dialogues, one about the role of women within Judaic practice and one involving the relationship between the Newport congregation and the Atlantic world.