Large Antique Vintage Russian 84 Silver Torah Pointer Yad 13.75" Composite 121g

Details

Description

An exceptionally large, heavy, and visually striking ceremonial Torah pointer (Yad) in the Imperial Russian style. Sourced directly from Israel … Read more An exceptionally large, heavy, and visually striking ceremonial Torah pointer (Yad) in the Imperial Russian style. Sourced directly from Israel through Aqua Arts & Antiques, this piece is assumed to be a composite construction (marriage) that gives it a commanding physical presence. Auction house listed it as being solid silver, but it hasn't been tested and the silver hallmark is on the hand only.

The lower pointer section features an authentic antique Russian solid silver hand terminal stamped with crisp 19th-century hallmarks. To create an imposing display piece, the hand has been skillfully mated to a vintage hollow-handled silver table utensil handle (scrolling Empire pattern) via a decorative, pierced cylindrical openwork spacer and an eagle-perched globe.

Weighs 121 grams and measures a monumental 13.75 inches in length.

Hallmarks & Authenticity: The silver hand pointer is stamped with the Cyrillic assay master initials "I.K" dated 1879, alongside the "84" zolotnik imperial silver standard mark (.875 purity) and the Moscow city arms (St. George the Victorious). The upper handle and decorative eagle section are unsigned.

Aesthetic Details: The piece boasts a beautiful, unpolished dark patina in the recessed details of the pierced scrollwork, contrasted by a bright hand-polished finish on the smooth curves of the upper handle. Features a sturdy hanging loop at the terminal end.

Origin, Age & Material Specifications
Origin Component: Hand/Pointer sourced from Moscow, Russia (1879); Assumption of being assembled into a composite piece mid-to-late 20th century.

Provenance: Sourced from Aqua Arts & Antiques (Azor, Israel).

Material: 84 Zolotnik Standard Silver (equivalent to .875 silver purity) on the hallmarked hand component; handle and fittings are silver (purity unverified/weighted).

Weight: 121 grams total (weighted handle).

Length: 13.75 inches (approx. 35 cm).

Design Significance & Aesthetic Appeal: For interior designers and collectors of fine metalware, this piece offers an incredibly rare scale. At nearly 14 inches long and heavily weighted, it transcends its ritual origins to serve as a dramatic sculptural object. The pairing of the crisp 1879 Russian hallmarked hand with the classical French-style scrollwork handle represents a fascinating historical assemblage, bridging the gap between sacred Judaica and grand-scale European dining silver.

Curator's Note: This monumental 13.75" silver Torah pointer commands immediate attention. Sourced from a prominent estate auction in Azor, Israel, its exceptional length and heavy, weighted feel make it an ideal decorative accent for a library shelf, display cabinet, or mantle. Displayed flat on a velvet riser or suspended, its intricate openwork spacer, perched eagle, and contrasting patinas offer gorgeous textural interest that effortlessly elevates both traditional and eclectic curated spaces. See less