Antique Moroccan Cast Brass Hanukkah Lamp Menorah 19th Century Judaica Oil Lamp

Details

Description

An authentic antique North African (Moroccan) cast brass Hanukkah lamp (Hanukkiah), designed for both wall-hanging (via the top suspension ring) … Read more An authentic antique North African (Moroccan) cast brass Hanukkah lamp (Hanukkiah), designed for both wall-hanging (via the top suspension ring) and tabletop display. This heavy, two-part piece features a richly pierced and chased cartouche-style backplate decorated with stylized scrollwork and avian motifs, fronted by an integrated oil tray containing four double oil pans, yielding a total configuration for eight individual lights alongside a central elevated shamash (servant light). The unusual double oil pan arrangement provides deep, individual reservoirs for oil and wicks. The metal retains its deep, undisturbed, as-found historical patina with rich oxidation and verdigris traces in the recesses.

Origin: Morocco / North Africa

Age: Late 19th Century (circa 1880–1900)

Dimensions: Approximately 8.25" tall by 5.5" wide by 2" deep

Weight: 1 lb, 5.4 oz

Material: Cast Brass (hand-poured and hand-finished)

Reference
Book Title: The Hanukkah Menorah
Author: Mordechai Narkiss
Page Number: Plate / Reference No. 38 ( similarly structured North African cast brass types documented in institutional and private collections)

Authenticity Assessment
Authenticity is verified through several critical diagnostic markers characteristic of genuine North African sand-cast brass work. The piece displays a coarse, granular sand-casting texture and micro-pitting across the reverse and recessed portions, contrasting sharply with the smooth, uniform surfaces typical of modern post-1950s lost-wax reproductions. Furthermore, the hand-filed pierced openings exhibit slight asymmetries where artisans manually cleaned the casting flash. The deep, chocolate-brown and verdigris oxidation embedded within the crevices is authentic chemical aging accrued over a prolonged timeline, impossible to replicate artificially via chemical surface treatments.

Curator's Note: A striking example of North African Jewish ceremonial metalwork, this late 19th-century Moroccan Hanukkah lamp marries Islamic-influenced geometric openwork with profound ritual utility. Featuring a masterfully chased cartouche backplate and rare double oil pans, its rich, undisturbed verdigris patina and sculptural weight make it an exceptional focal point for a refined bookshelf display, collector's cabinet, or curated mantel vignette. Interior designers will appreciate its authentic cultural narrative, tactile warmth, and distinct historic silhouette. See less