Monumental Bohemian Ruby & Crystal Ceremonial Pokal /Synagogue Presentation Urn

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Description

Monumental Bohemian Ruby-Flashed Crystal Ceremonial Pokal/Synagogue Presentation Urn

Czech Republic (formerly Czechoslovakia), 1960-1980
Two-part (2 Pieces) construction: lidded upper section … Read more Monumental Bohemian Ruby-Flashed Crystal Ceremonial Pokal/Synagogue Presentation Urn

Czech Republic (formerly Czechoslovakia), 1960-1980
Two-part (2 Pieces) construction: lidded upper section and pedestal base

An imposing and finely executed lidded ceremonial pokal in ruby engraved and cut crystal, produced in the Bohemian glassmaking traditions of Moser Glass Works, and engraved with Jewish liturgical iconography. Rising 55 inches in total height, the work has a sculptural verticality and visual presence intended for sanctuary or ceremonial hall display.

The ruby overlay body is engraved in three registers:
• a rabbi or chazzan in tallit, rendered with subtle facial modeling and garment shading;
• the Birkat Kohanim priestly blessing hands beneath a crown cartouche;
• and a floral reserve with Magen David and the inscription “Shabbat Shalom.”

The domed cover and stepped pedestal base are meticulously cut with starburst, diamond, and radiating panel motifs, demonstrating continuity with the long Bohemian tradition of presentation crystal. The clarity of the glass, evenness of the ruby flash, and precision of the wheel engraving indicate a workshop of professional training, likely associated with the Moser Glassworks.

This form, associated historically with Central European presentation cups (Pokale), here attains architectural scale, intended to serve as a focal ceremonial object for Shabbat and festival observance, placed at the bimah, ark platform, or processional entry.

Dimensions
Total Height (assembled): 55 in.
Lid (separate): 17 in. H × 14 in. D
Base with body (separate): 39 in. H × 14 in. D
Two-piece construction.

Condition
Fine condition with minor surface handling consistent with ceremonial display.

Notes
A rare example of large-format Bohemian engraved ceremonial glass, uniting European crystal craftsmanship with Judaic liturgical symbolism.

Three Engraved Panels
1. The Front Portrait

Depicts a rabbi or chazzan (cantor), cloaked in a tallit (prayer shawl), head covered, in a solemn pose.

Portrait format framed with scrollwork and a crown.

This type of portrait is usually a real individual, not a “generic rabbi.”

The portrait resembles a late 19th-century Lithuanian/Polish rabbinic image carving, possibly even drawn from a known studio portrait.


2. Priestly Hands (Birkat Kohanim)
The two hands with fingers parted form the gesture of the Priestly Blessing, identifying the honoree as a Kohen (member of the hereditary priestly caste).

The Hebrew beneath reads a familiar phrase:
"וְרָאִיתִי נֹפֶשׁ הַכֹּהֵן" (or a variation thereof),
meaning:
"And I recognized him as a soul of the priestly line."

The crown above reinforces honor, rank, and lineage.

This confirms the subject was not just a rabbi but specifically a Kohen—which materially increases cultural importance.

3. The Dedication (Inscription Panel)
The inscription appears to include words of peace and remembrance—very common in commemorative synagogue gifts.

The Hebrew you pointed to earlier (bottom band) reads:
"שָׁלוֹם עֲלֵיכֶם" — “Peace be upon you.”

Combined with floral vines and a Magen David, this places the piece in the Eastern/Central European synagogue decorative tradition. See less