Hanukkah lamp inscribed with blessings, and adorned with warriors, lions, and bears
Object description:
The seven-branched menorah appears in the center of the back panel. Engraved on either side are the blessings over the lights, along with the passage �We kindle these lights . . .� The figures of Moses and Aaron are depicted in a folk style also found in Hebrew manuscript illustrations and printed books. The colonnade symbolize the Temple, as depicted on Bar Kokhba coins and Torah arks. Figures of Judith and her maidservant as well as warriors appear in the corners of the oil font shelf. The holder of the shammash (�servant� light) is also shaped as a warrior. The bears at the top of the panel are reminiscent of medieval illustrations; the lions resemble family emblems of the nobility; and the font spouts recall eaves troughs of Gothic European cathedrals.
Object/Work type:
Cultural Heritage type:
Location:
Jerusalem - Israel
Object measurements:
H: 27.5; W: 30; D: 10 cm
Production
Date: Early 18th century
Material/Technique: Silver, repouss?, engraved, cast, and partly gilt
Subject/theme:
Jewish Art, Hanukkah lamps, Jewish Art and Life
Resource
Rights Type:
Record
Source: The Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Identifier: 201545