Ironically the client was raised in a traditional Jewish home and had a child living in Israel who has chosen orthodoxy. The artist felt a personal obligation, being a Jew herself, to explore both issues surrounding circumcision, pro and con.

Using organic materials of wood clay and glass, and using the rich organic colors of nature, the top of this chest mimics a natural topography, but is actually the upper torso of a woman. Organic formations, that may seem to the eye , nodules uncovered beneath deep layers of Earth, are in fact a more fertile element of nature all together! (See TV spot)

Laura also set out to create something utilitarian that would be as much a part of this man's daily life as his convictions

Inside the drawer, there are 7 compartments, each with its uncut handle for a pull. Each "ebony tower", is a hand-made clay piece, carefully burnished for hours and fired, in the ancient pottery-making technique of the Zuni Indian. On the other side of each lid is the continuation of the male appendage which can be unsnapped to provide individual storage space. Yes,a place to hide the "family jewels" if you will.

Using very detailed technical drawings of a male circumcision procedure, the artist has bluntly emblazed each surgical step into the sections of the Star of David. Surrounding the Mogen David is the Hebrew text of Genesis 17, G-ds covenant with Abraham, wherein it is stated....10 This is my covenant, which ye shall keep between Me and you and thy seed after thee: every male among you shall be circumcised.

It is of some merit to mention here than not only is the mosaic text in ancient Hebrew, but painstakingly inlayed backwards so it can be viewed correctly in the mirror that lies beneath. The contrast between the very natural and organic aspects of the outside of the piece and the stark and affected man imposed dictums profanely displayed in the mosaic on the underside of the piece, clearly delves into Jacobs own ambivalence on the matter of circumcision. Conversely, there is also enough reverence paid to the underside to make one wonder if it is not an unearthed treasure ...

In addition to these eye-popping design motifs, the artful and loving mosaic inlays present shapes, color schemes, and patterns designed to draw the eye and awake the imagination. There is always something new to uncover in Jacobs`work. The imagination and skill of her art reflects an eye for detail and a willingness to go wherever the artist need be, to reflect the client's vision, as well as her own.