Magnificent Silver Hanukkah Lamp Menorah, Austrian Circa 1880. Judaica

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Magnificent Silver Hanukkah Lamp Menorah, Austrian Circa 1880. Judaica:
$8500.00

This exceptional and richly adorned silver Hanukkah lamp, crafted in Austria circa 1880, is a striking example of late 19th-century European Judaica—a grand fusion of artistic elegance and ritual function.Standing boldly on four finely scrolled feet, each leg is crowned with a shell motif and accented at its apex with a prominent, serene, and exquisitely cast angelic feminine face framed by draped forms, lending the piece a refined, almost celestial presence. These elaborate legs support a domed and tiered base, meticulously engraved with intricate foliate scrollwork, and surmounted by a boldly gadrooned plateau that echoes the Rococo influences of the period.Rising from this base is a central trophy-shaped stem, ornamented with acanthus-like engravings above and wrapped in gadroon-style relief below. The form is flanked by two strikingly sculpted auriform handles, their floral curves terminating in expressive angelic visages—mouths agape as if in song or prayer—adding to the symbolic and aesthetic richness of the piece.From this central form emerge four tiered, spool-shaped elements, each serving as the branching point for the eight arms of the menorah. These arms arch upward in flowing half-loops composed of elegant C-scrolls, terminating in finely crafted decanter-form oil cups, each echoing the ornamental sensibilities of late Baroque silverwork. The rhythmic sweep of the branches creates a visual harmony, giving the menorah an uplifting and majestic silhouette.At the upper center, leaning forward prominently, is the removable shamash—the servant lamp—carefully formed and balanced above the menorah’s midline. Crowning the composition is a regal eagle finial, wings outstretched in powerful motion, perched atop a knopped pedestal. The eagle’s head is turned to the side, as though scanning the horizon, imbuing the piece with an aura of watchfulness and nobility.This menorah is not only a masterpiece of silversmithing but a profound expression of Jewish ritual artistry—its dramatic form and lavish detail reflecting both spiritual grandeur and the rich cultural heritage of Austro-Hungarian Jewish communities in the late 19th century.Hallmarked at the side of the domed base.22.26ozt

Dimensions:Height: 17.33 in (44 cm)Width: 10.63 in (27 cm)Depth: 5.12 in (13 cm)
Materials and Techniques:Silver
Place of Origin:Austria
Period:Late 19th Century
Date of Manufacture:1880s
Condition:GoodWear consistent with age and use.