Israel - Group of 9 "Happiness" Medals 1989 - Silver 935, approx. 234.3g (approx. 219.1g pure silver, 7.05 oz), 37 mm

Israel - Group of 9 "Happiness" Medals 1989 - Silver 935, approx. 234.3g (approx. 219.1g pure silver, 7.05 oz), 37 mm Official state medal, issued in 1989. “Happiness” is a central theme in the work of sculptor and artist Chaim Gross, whose creations consistently expressed joy, vitality and optimism. Born in Eastern Galicia in the Carpathian Mountains, Gross became known as a versatile artist working in sculpture, painting, glass, textiles and bronze. His artistic inspiration drew heavily from Hasidic heritage and the belief that despite hardship, life itself is rooted in joy. His works were displayed in major museums worldwide and adorned numerous public buildings. In 1963 he received the prestigious The Arts & Letters Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Obverse: Depiction of a sunflower in full bloom after a work by Chaim Gross. The Hebrew inscription “Happiness” appears above. On silver and gold issues, the flower was hand-painted with colorful enamel, with variations between individual medals. Reverse: Gross’s well-known sculpture “Happy Children, ” depicting dancing children in a circle. Around the rim appear the title and the artist’s signature “CHAIM GROSS”.