Antique German 800 Silver Besamim Spice Tower Tower Havdalah Judaica 8" 89g

Details

Description

This is a beautiful 19th-century antique German Continental silver besamim (spice) tower used traditionally during the Havdalah ceremony marking the … Read more This is a beautiful 19th-century antique German Continental silver besamim (spice) tower used traditionally during the Havdalah ceremony marking the conclusion of the Jewish Sabbath. The piece features a square, central spice chamber adorned with hand-engraved geometric foliate flourishes on the side panels and an expertly executed, pierced Star of David on the hinged access door. The tower is supported by a classic knopped stem tapering down to a circular spreading base.

The spire is designed to accept four decorative flags around its shoulder, with a larger Star of David finial crowning the very top. This is an authentic piece of historical Judaica showing beautiful workmanship. It was originally purchased from World Auction Gallery, where it was described as an "800 Silver Continental besamim spice tower."

Origin & Age
Country of Origin: Germany / Continental Europe

Circa: Mid-to-late 19th Century (Pre-1888)

Specifications
Material: .800 Solid Silver
Height: 8 inches (~20.3 cm)
Total Weight: 89 grams

Reference
Book Title: Jewish Ceremonial Art and Religious Observance
Author: Abram Kanof
Page Reference: The evolution, historical architecture, and functional geometry of the Ashkenazi Sabbath spice container are examined comprehensively on Pages 78–82. See less