A rare photo of the holy Rabbi Avraham Mattisyahu Friedman from Shtefanesht, Romania, c. 1920s. Released during his lifetime.
The Rebbe is seen wearing a Rozhinian shtreimel [a shtreimel with a tall cap in the center, as was the custom for the Rebbes of the Rozhin dynasty], with what seems to be two of his attendants by his side. The picture was taken as he left the synagogue, when the Rebbe stopped in his tracks and stared straight into the camera.
Rabbi Avraham Mattisyahu Friedman of Ştefăneşt [1846-1933] was the grandson of Rabbi Avraham the Malach and Rabbi Israel of Rozhin. He succeeded his father at the age of 22 and led his Hasidic court in the city of Ştefăneşt for 64 years. He was a revered figure among Romanian Jews and others, a righteous and holy man to whom people from all corners of the earth flocked for counsel and guidance, and to receive blessings. His grave served as a pilgrimage site until 1969, when his remains were brought to Israel.
14×9 cm. The back is divided for use as a postcard. Very good condition.
