Vintage 1950s Heavy Pal-Bell Israel Verdigris Brass 9.5" Wall Plate Rabbi Shofar

Details

Description

This exceptional vintage 1950s Pal-Bell Israel decorative wall plate is a standout example of early mid-century Israeli metalware designed by … Read more This exceptional vintage 1950s Pal-Bell Israel decorative wall plate is a standout example of early mid-century Israeli metalware designed by pioneer sculptor Maurice Ascalon. Measuring a substantial 9.5 inches in diameter and weighing over a pound (1 lb 1.0 oz), this piece is significantly larger and heavier than standard production editions, featuring an impressive tactile heft and deep architectural depth. The rim showcases Pal-Bell's celebrated chemical verdigris finish in a particularly thick, crusty, and deeply textured green oxidation layer that offers a striking visual contrast against the antiqued bronze central medallion. At the center, a bold high-relief profile depicts a hooded elder blowing the Shofar before a synagogue Ark topped with a Menorah. Stamped on the reverse with the classic Pal-Bell oval logo and bilingual "MADE IN ISRAEL" marks alongside original concentric spinning lines and an integrated hanging slot, this unpolished, 100% authentic piece retains its magnificent original surface—making it an ideal acquisition for advanced Judaica collectors, Israeliana enthusiasts, or fine mid-century interior displays.

Authenticity Assessment & Forensics
The underside is stamped with the official, crisp Pal-Bell Co. Ltd. oval maker's mark alongside the bilingual text "MADE IN ISRAEL" and "תוצרת ישראל" (Made in Israel).

Forensic Dating & Manufacturing Period
Early Post-Independence Period (c. 1948–1956): Stamped with the post-1948 "MADE IN ISRAEL" designation alongside the iconic Pal-Bell oval hallmark.

Production Characteristics: The reverse features fine concentric circular spinning/lathe marks from hand-finishing, an integrated raised foot rim, and an original factory keyhole hanger. Weighing a heavy 1 lb 1 oz at 9.5 inches in diameter, it reflects Pal-Bell's dense mid-century brass/bronze casting standards under founder Maurice Ascalon.

Surface Finish: Features Pal-Bell's celebrated early chemical verdigris application—a thick, crusty, highly textured green oxidation that creates a dramatic visual contrast against the bold, copper-red central relief.

Verdict: 100% authentic early-1950s production from the Tel Aviv foundry.

Item: Rare Heavy Israeli Verdigris Brass Wall Plate / Charger

Maker / Designer: Pal-Bell Co. Ltd. (Designed by Maurice Ascalon)

Origin: Tel Aviv, Israel

Age: Vintage (c. 1950s)

Material: Heavy Solid Cast Brass / Bronze with Chemical Verdigris Finish

Dimensions: 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) diameter

Weight: 1 lb 1.0 oz (482 g) — Significantly heavier and larger than standard production sizes

Subject & Iconography: The central medallion displays a high-relief profile of a hooded elder/rabbi blowing the Shofar (ram's horn) before a synagogue Ark (Aron Kodesh) topped with a Menorah. The wide outer rim showcases Pal-Bell's signature thick, crusty verdigris patina, accented by subtle incised concentric border rings.

Reference
Book Title: Pal-Bell: Israel's Decorative Metalware 1939–1956
Author / Editor: Collection reference standard (Maurice Ascalon Archives)
Reference Note: Listed as Item No. 502 / Shofar Blowing Wall Plaque / Decorative Plate Series.
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Historical Provenance & Design Significance:
Founded in Tel Aviv in 1939 by sculptor Maurice Ascalon (born Moshe Klein), Pal-Bell Co. Ltd. pioneered mid-century Israeli decorative art. Ascalon fused European Bauhaus functionality with ancient Near Eastern motifs, crafting heavy bronze and brass art objects that came to define post-independence Israeli design.

Curator's Note:
At 9.5 inches and over a pound in weight, this substantial cast brass charger plate possesses outstanding architectural weight and visual strength. The deep contrast between the crisp central shofar-blower relief and the thick, crusty verdigris rim brings exceptional organic texture, making it an ideal decorative accent for a gallery wall, mantel display, or modern bookshelf unit. See less