Last summer, we sat in the studio of Zipporah Shemesh-Barbur, which adjoined her home, talking about ways to bring her beautiful products to you. It was a treat for the senses to be enveloped by amazing smells and to see her beautiful creations–soaps, candles and other art. We had a wonderful visit with Zipporah and the family.
Then, just months later, their home was destroyed by an Iranian missile. Praise God, Zipporah and her family were miraculously unharmed in the attack, but they were forced to relocate, adding to the incredible stress all Israelis have undergone under the threat of Iranian missile fire.
A view of the inside of Zipporah's home the day an Iranian missile fell nearby. (Screengrab, The Israel Guys YouTube)
Behind the Name: Shemesh Barbur
Zipporah took on the name Shemesh Barbur for her artistic work. Shemesh means “Sun” and Barbur, “Swan.” The sun embodies light, warmth, radiance, and joy. The swan is a picture of grace, gentleness, beauty, and quiet wonder.
In her own words: “The swan has long been a symbol of transformation in folklore and art—an elegant creature often used to portray the journey from hardship into beauty, strength, and renewal. This theme of inner transformation runs deeply through my work. The sun and the swan together express my belief that **light and transformation live within all of us**, and that beauty—inner and outer—emerges when we allow ourselves to grow, heal, and shine. The name Shemesh-Barbur captures the heart of my mission: to create art, candles, and scents that embody both *illumination* and *grace*, inspiring others to feel uplifted, moved, and connected to their own inner light”
“The sun and the swan together express my belief that light and transformation live within all of us, and that beauty—inner and outer—emerges when we allow ourselves to grow, heal, and shine.”
We are privileged to offer you a selection of her amazing soaps. They are a sign of the resilience of the Jewish People, and a determination to continue on despite the opposition of nearly the whole world. Your purchases of these beautiful soaps are an investment in the continued building and restoration of the heartland of Israel! Shop Shemesh Barbur Soaps
