"Jericho Antiques TLV"– A Story of Magic and Tradition
Under the arches, in the old heart of Tel Aviv, hides a magical corner, where you can find the scents of the past and captivating stories. 'Jericho Antiques TLV,' a family-owned shop founded in 1953, is more than just a shop – it is a gate to a journey through time that connects tradition, history, art and beauty.
The Levy Azizolayoff Family
The Journey Begins in Mashhad, the Devout Shiite City of Northern Iran
The story begins in the city of Mashhad, Iran, with Binyamin (Amin) Levy Azizolayoff, a Jewish merchant who immigrated to the Land of Israel in 1922.
The Jewish community of Mashhad, known as the "Anusim of Mashhad," was forced to convert to Islam to survive. Outwardly, they adopted the Islamic faith, but in secret, they remained devoted to their Jewish traditions, living a double life—Muslims in public, Jews in hiding.
Binyamin was a successful trader, traveling between Iran, India, London, Paris, South Africa, and New York. He specialized in trading gemstones, carpets, furs, and antiques, always bringing back rare treasures and fascinating stories from every place he visited.
In his home in Jerusalem’s Bukharan Quarter, Binyamin raised eight children while continuing his global travels, ensuring the continuation of the family's trading heritage. His home was filled with tradition, love, and a deep connection to different cultures, travel stories, and collecting—a legacy that would inspire future generations.
1953 - The Opening of "Jericho Antiques" in Tel Aviv
In 1953, Rahamim, the son of Binyamin, opened "Jericho Antiques" in the heart of what was then a small-town Tel Aviv. Why the name "Jericho"? Inspired by his love for hiking in the Judean Desert and to the Biblical town Jericho, Rahamim sought to bring the essence of the ancient oasis into his store.
For 42 years, Rahamim and his wife, Tuti, worked side by side, building not just a business, but a special attraction.
The store became a vibrant artistic hub, offering an extraordinary selection of Persian, Yemeni, Indian, and European jewelry, handmade carpets, traditional copperware, intricate Damascene furniture, African sculptures, and countless other fascinating artifacts.
The Next Generation Preserves the Legacy
After the passing of Rahamim and Tuti, a critical question arose: What would become of the "Jericho" antique store?
For Nava, their daughter, the answer was clear—this special place could not be lost! Having grown up in the store, knowing every corner, every item, and every story, she made the bold decision to leave behind a decades-long teaching career and devote herself to preserving the family’s legacy.
"As a child," Nava recalls, "the store was an inseparable part of my life. After school, I would sit and do my homework surrounded by antique furniture, Persian carpets, vintage lamps, antique jewelry, and traditional copperware. It was more than a shop—it was our home, a place filled with family moments, conversations, and stories. Even today," she says, "I am part of the store, and the store is part of me."
When the store came into her hands, Nava transformed it into a space unlike any other—much more than just an antique shop. She continued to open it every day, carefully arranging each piece with loving hands and welcoming customers—many of whom return time and time again, not just to buy, but to chat, reminisce, and relive memories.
"This store is so much more than just business," says Nava. "It is a meeting place for generations, cultures, and stories. Every item here carries history, crafted with heart and soul. When I pass an item to a customer, I feel as though I’m sharing a piece of my family’s story."
Today, the store is a fusion of nostalgia and fresh energy.
Alongside the historical pieces that remain from the days when Rahamim and Tuti ran the store, Nava brings her own vibrant touch—adding unique personal selections and offering expert advice to collectors, designers, and private customers.
"Jericho Antiques" remains a place where time stands still. Nava continues to invite visitors to step inside, experience the magic, hear the stories, and become part of a tradition that spans generations—all while discovering rare treasures among the store’s vast collection.
What Awaits You in the Store?
Step into a world of timeless beauty, where every item holds a story, and history comes to life.
Jericho Antiques is not just a shop—it’s a curated collection of cultures, artistry, and tradition. Within its walls, you’ll find exquisite handcrafted Damascene furniture inlaid with mother-of-pearl, vintage Persian copperware, African sculptures, antique lamps, and countless other treasures, each echoing the craftsmanship and heritage of its origins.
Every piece in our collection has been carefully sourced over the years from artisans, collectors, and private estates. These are more than just objects; they are fragments of a vanishing past, windows into forgotten eras, waiting to be rediscovered.
To get a glimpse of this unique collection, we invite you to take a **virtual tour** of the store and browse an exclusive gallery showcasing some of our finest pieces.
Of course, nothing compares to experiencing the magic in person. Step inside our store and let yourself be transported—Tel Aviv’s very own hidden Aladdin’s cave awaits.
A Touch of the Past in the Beating Heart of Tel Aviv
70 Years of Family Tradition
A Rare Collection of Antiques from Around the World
One-of-a-Kind Items You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
A Timeless Store Filled with Stories and Charm
A Personalized Experience with Professional Service
We Look Forward to Welcoming You to 'Jericho Antiques'
For over 70 years, "Jericho Antiques" has preserved the charm of the past, creating a place where time stands still. We invite you to embark on a journey through history, experience the magic of our unique collection, and uncover the stories behind each treasured piece.
Thousands of Beautiful and Rare Treasures Await You
Visit us and immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey through a magical and mysterious past.
