Crafted by hand, the shield is intricately designed, with a crown motif at the top and framed by ornate, flowing vegetal and floral motifs. The central feature prominently depicts the Tablets of the Ten Commandments, written in Hebrew. Two beautifully chased rampant lions in a Folk Art fashion are symmetrically positioned on either side of the tablets.
This type of Torah shield was produced by Jewish artisans in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, during the 19th century. These pieces were often commissioned by wealthy patrons for use in synagogues to beautify the Torah scroll during religious services.
Polish Torah shields from this era are valued not only for their religious importance but also as examples of the highly developed silversmithing techniques used in Jewish ceremonial art during that period.
Hallmarked at lower front.
Height, 21.7 cm x Width, 16.5 cm
8.4 Oz. (main shield, hanging chain is not silver)
Good-Fair condition, missing bells, central holiday plaque and pieces from the crown and lower corner.
Good-Fair condition, missing bells, central holiday plaque and pieces from the crown and lower corner.
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