1990s Israeli Sterling Silver Kiddush Cup Cutout Hebrew Blessing Borei Pri Hagafen Netafim

Details

Description

This refined Israeli sterling silver Kiddush goblet was crafted by Netafim, renowned silversmiths based in Jerusalem. Designed in a sleek … Read more This refined Israeli sterling silver Kiddush goblet was crafted by Netafim, renowned silversmiths based in Jerusalem. Designed in a sleek goblet silhouette, it features a flared rim, a ribbed columnar stem, and a dome base decorated with openwork cutout Hebrew script.

The base displays the traditional blessing over wine: בּוֹרֵא פְּרִי הַגָּפֶן (Borei Pri HaGafen – "Creator of the fruit of the vine"). Delicate beaded borders line the stem collar and the base rim, enhancing its structural appeal. The interior features a soft gold wash (gilt lining) designed to protect the silver from acidic wine corrosion during ritual Shabbat and holiday use.

Material: .925 Sterling Silver

Maker / Manufacturer: Netafim 55 Ltd. (Jerusalem, Israel)

Origin: Israel

Age: Late 20th Century (c. 1970s–1990s)

Dimensions: 4.75" Height | 2.75" Top Rim Diameter | 2.4" Base Diameter

Weight: 89.0 grams (approx. 2.86 troy ounces)

Authenticity Assessment
The piece is authentic. Inside the basin, it displays the clear circular maker's mark stamped: STERLING BY NETAFIM. The hand-cut or sawed detail of the Hebrew calligraphy (Borei Pri HaGafen) on the lower skirt is typical of mid-to-late 20th-century Jerusalem silver production. The beaded rim work, standard 89g solid weight, and classic gilt lining further confirm traditional Israeli sterling craft standards rather than silver-plated imitations.

Reference
For historical context regarding 20th-century Israeli silver design and Judaica:
Book Title: Jewish Ceremonial Art and Religious Observance
Author: Abram Kanof
Page: p. 112–115 (discussing modern Israeli silversmithing traditions and ritual wine goblets)

Historical Provenance & Design Significance: Originating from Netafim in Jerusalem, this piece represents post-war Israeli modernist Judaica. By fusing modern openwork techniques with traditional Jewish ceremonial iconography, Netafim elevated functional religious objects into sculptural statement pieces. The integration of classical Hebrew typography directly into the metalwork reflects the mid-century revival of Israeli artisan silvercraft.

Interior Design Aesthetic: With its clean architectural stem, beaded accents, and negative-space lettering, this cup serves as a sophisticated accent piece for traditional sideboard displays or contemporary curio collections.

Curator's Note:
An exquisite example of mid-to-late 20th-century Israeli silvercraft, this Netafim sterling goblet blends sacred calligraphy with timeless geometric proportions. Its openwork base catches ambient light beautifully, making it an inviting centerpiece on a bar cart, dining sideboard, or open shelving installation. See less