19th Century Russian Silver Spice Tower

Item Details

A 19th century Russian sterling silver (stamped 84, tested to be 92.5 sterling) six sided spice tower with intricate filigree panels, flag pendants and dangling bells. The gold washed silver pendant finial at the top of the tapered spire is stamped ‘I.Pearlman, 84’ with the double headed eagle hallmark and the base is stamped ‘I.P. 84’ with the eagle hallmark as well. The filigree spice compartment has a hinged door, it is hung with bells over a turned support and domed circular base. The total approximate weight inclusive of all non-metal materials is 4.83 ozt.

According to rabbinic legend, each Jewish person receives a special soul (neshama yetera) on the Sabbath. As this extra spiritual dimension departs from the body at the close of the Sabbath, one is overcome with a certain degree of sorrow. The spices are interpreted as a means of comfort at the moment of transition to the new week. As it was customary in ancient times to welcome the Sabbath with branches of myrtle, so during the service to usher out the Sabbath ‘the Havdalah ceremony’ people inhaled the fragrances of their branches. In the course of generations, aromatic spices (most popularly cinnamon and cloves in Ashkenazi communities) began to replace the myrtle.

• This item has been evaluated and verified by an independent Graduate Gemologist (CINSSM)

Condition

- some small scratches and imperfections.

Dimensions

- the total approximate weight inclusive of all non-metal materials is 4.83ozt.

Item #

17DCC024-651