Auction 27
Lot 095:
A large and impressive silver breastplate in unique, unparalleled work. Cutting, hammering, welding and scalpel work. The top part is built in the form of a crown with impressive decorations on the side panel with the words “Shema Yisrael Hashem Elokeinu Hashem Echad,” and the verses recited when removing the Torah scroll from the ark. The body of the text is built of decorated cutting work with screwing (welded on the back) in the shape of a window “zachor et yom hashabbat l’kadsho” – that symbolizes that the Torah scroll is meant to be read on shabbat. On both sides are ‘Yachin and Boaz’ pillars, and above them deer that symbolize Tiferet in honor of the Torah. In the center is screwed silver box in the shape of the Tablets of the Covenant with the Ten Commandments, and above them a pair of lions that symbolize ‘gevurah’ holding spears (that hide a repair done later, perhaps to conceal an engraving that was originally there). At the bottom are 3 large bells. At the top is a silver chain appropriate to the period. Hallmarked Mappin & Webb – a company founded in England in 1775. The artist’s stamp “P”, and a stamp with the figure of a lion that symbolizes England, the country it was made in. Height: 41 cm, not including the bells. Width: 26 cm. Weight: 1370 grams. Slight blemishes. Overall good condition.
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