Offered is a magnificent, highly important Late Imperial Russian 84 Zolotnik (.875) silver mechanical Purim Grogger (Gragger / Noise Maker), dated 1894. This rare piece of ceremonial Judaica features an exquisite combination of mechanical ingenuity and fine artistry.

The handle features a rotating crank assembly with an active gear mechanism that produces the traditional sound when spun. The handle shaft is beautifully chased and repoussé-decorated with scrolling foliage, accented by hand-set turquoise and coral cabochons. The top of the crank is crowned with a finely cast, detailed three-dimensional finial depicting a figure in traditional attire.

The sounding paddle is beautifully decorated with bright-cut zigzag borders and central foliate scrollwork hosting a bezel-set amethyst glass or gemstone paste cabochon. Most notably, the paddle features hand-engraved Hebrew letters on either side: a Lamed (ל) on one face and a Shin (ש) on the reverse, designating its sacred or familial ownership context.

An exceptional asset for any advanced museum-level collection of historic Judaica or Imperial Russian silver.

Origin & Specifications

• Country of Origin: Moscow, Russian Empire

• Silversmith / Maker: Konstantin Pegov (КП)

• Assay Master: Anatoly Apollonovich Artsybashev (А·А)

• Date of Manufacture: 1894

• Material: 84 Zolotnik Silver (.875 fine), Turquoise, Coral, and Amethyst Paste/Gemstone Cabochons

• Weight: 87 grams

Reference

Book Title: Russian Silver Hallmarks: 1797-1917 > Author: Postnikova-Loseva, M.M.

Reference Details: For verification of the maker's mark КП (Konstantin Pegov) and the assayer mark А·А (Anatoly Artsybashev) under Moscow jurisdiction, cross-reference the standardized registry tables for late 19th-century Moscow silversmiths and assayers, typically annotated within the Moscow master index entries (specifically matching the 1894 timeline criteria).

Condition

Excellent, untouched antique condition with a magnificent natural, historic patina. The silver surfaces remain crisp with minimal pocket wear to the bright-cut engraving. The mechanical components operate smoothly; the gear turns freely on the spindle. Stones are securely intact in their original bezels. No indicators of modern restoration, solder repairs, or alterations.