Eastern European Silver Torah Pointer (Yad) with Hebrew Inscription, 1880-1920

Details

Description

Antique Eastern European Silver Torah Pointer (Yad) with Hebrew Inscription, c. 1880–1920

An elegant and finely engraved silver Torah pointer … Read more Antique Eastern European Silver Torah Pointer (Yad) with Hebrew Inscription, c. 1880–1920

An elegant and finely engraved silver Torah pointer (Yad), most likely crafted in Eastern Europe (Russia or Poland), circa 1880–1920.

This ritual object is distinguished by its elongated form and engine-turned decoration, with alternating bands of guilloché-like engraving and stylized foliate motifs. The shaft swells to a central baluster knop, flanked by engraved crown-like finials, before tapering to the terminal hand finial. The hand is naturalistically modeled, with the index finger extended to guide the reader along the sacred text. A suspension chain, original to the piece, allows the yad to be worn or hung on the Torah scroll when not in use.

An engraved Hebrew dedicatory inscription along the shaft reads:
“זה עיטור לבית הכנסת.”
(Zeh itur l’Beit haKnesset)
Translation: “This is an ornament for the synagogue.”

This phrase reflects the pointer’s original purpose as a synagogue donation, serving not only a functional role in the ritual reading of the Torah but also as a symbolic act of devotion and patronage.

Dimensions
Length (pointer): 22.5 in.
Chain: 10.75 in.
Total drop (pointer + chain): ~33.25 in.
Diameter at widest point: 1 in.
Weight: 92 g

Condition
Good antique condition with light surface wear consistent with age and use. The silver surface shows fine patination and minor handling marks. Retains excellent definition in engraving and finial.

Historical Context
The yad (Hebrew for “hand”) has been a central element of Jewish liturgical practice for centuries, allowing the Torah reader to follow the sacred text without touching the parchment. This example, with its engine-turned surface and inscription, aligns with the silver Judaica traditions of Warsaw, Galicia, and provincial Russian workshops. Many such synagogue ornaments were produced by Jewish silversmiths in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often outside of official assay systems, explaining the absence of hallmarks. See less