Up for sale is an antique Imperial Russian brass three-handled Netilat Yadayim (also known as a ritual hand-washing laver or cup in Judaica). This is a ceremonial vessel used in Jewish tradition for pouring water over the hands during ritual ablutions. The design features a hand-hammered brass body with a slightly flared, rounded form for stability, three sturdy riveted handles (two side handles for gripping and one possibly for pouring or balance), and subtle surface texturing from the hammering process. The exterior shows a warm, aged brass patina with minor dents, scratches, and verdigris spots consistent with use and age, adding to its authentic character. The interior is smoother but displays some discoloration from exposure.

At the base, there's a prominent Imperial Russian hallmark: a double-headed eagle (symbolizing the Tsarist era) accompanied by Cyrillic markings, including elements like "ТУЛА" (Tula) and assay letters (e.g., resembling "ФВъТУЛІь"), confirming assaying in Tula, Russia's historic metalworking center. No maker's name is clearly legible due to wear, but the style matches Tula's renowned brass production. It's functional but best displayed as a collectible due to its age.

Age: Late 19th century, circa 1880-1900. The Imperial double-headed eagle hallmark places it firmly in the Tsarist period before the 1917 Revolution, when Tula workshops produced high-quality brassware under strict assay standards. The hand-hammered construction and lack of modern tooling further support this dating.

Usage: This is a traditional Judaica item for Netilat Yadayim – the Jewish ritual of hand washing. It would be filled with water and used to pour over the hands (typically three times per hand) before meals, prayers, or other observances, symbolizing spiritual purification. The three handles allow for easy manipulation by one person to pour for another, emphasizing communal or familial use. In modern times, it's primarily a decorative or collectible piece in Jewish homes, synagogues, or antique displays, though it remains kosher-compliant if ritually cleaned.

Origin: Tula, Russia (now Tula Oblast, European Russia). Tula was the epicenter of Imperial Russian metal craftsmanship, especially for brass and copper items like samovars, tableware, and Judaica. Jewish artisans and workshops in the Pale of Settlement often commissioned or produced such pieces for the Russian Jewish community. The hallmark's double-headed eagle indicates it was officially assayed and approved for imperial standards, ensuring quality and authenticity.

Item dimensions: 3.75 in tall × 6.25 in across handles× 4 in top diameter (3 in bottom diameter) 

Weight of item only: 10.7 oz