This is an authentic 19th-century Eastern European footed brass Etrog box (Sukkot citron vessel), originally acquired from J. Greenstein & Co. Auction House.

The vessel features a hand-engraved floral and leaf motif across its rounded body and high-domed lid, anchored by four stylized fleur-de-lis cabriole feet attached with original solder joints. The hinged lid is surmounted by an openwork geometric diamond/loop finial set atop an applied leaf base. Inside, the lid reveals a single central assembly screw securing the top finial ornament.

The underside of the base is stamped with the clear numeral "36" (a matching inventory, pattern, or batch marker typical of 19th-century workshop metalware).

Silver Plating & Surface Finish Analysis

An examination of the crevices, foot joints, and rim reveals white residue alongside remaining areas of bright metal tone:

• Residual Polish vs. Plating: The white material concentrated in the recessed details around the four feet and hinge is dried, calcified metal polish residue left behind by prior cleanings over several decades.

• Silver-Plating Evidence: While the vessel displays a golden brass hue overall, visible silver-toned areas around the rim and underside indicate this piece was originally silver-plated over brass (EPBM or silver-gilded brass). Over a century of handling and cleaning has worn away the thin silver layer, exposing the warm brass substrate beneath.

Origin & Age

• Origin: Eastern Europe (likely Poland, Austro-Hungarian Empire, or Russia)

• Age: Late 19th Century (c. 1880)

Specifications

• Dimensions: 5.5 inches tall (to top of finial) × ~5.25 inches wide

• Weight: 514 grams (18.13 oz)

• Material: Cast and chased brass (historically silver-plated over base brass)

Condition Report

• Overall: Very Good antique condition consistent with age and ritual use.

• Structure: Sound hinge mechanism; lid opens and closes securely. All four feet are firmly attached.

• Surface: Moderate surface wear, light micro-scratching, and natural age tarnish. Traces of original silver plate remain along the base rim and underside. Recessed areas around the feet and hinge contain dried white polish residue, which can be left for historical patina or gently cleaned with warm water and a soft bristle brush.

Authenticity Assessment

This piece exhibits all classic markers of authentic late 19th-century Judaic ritual metalwork:

1. Form & Proportions: The squat oval/spherical footed form was designed specifically to safely house the etrog (citron fruit) with a flax/cotton lining during the holiday of Sukkot, double-purposed in many Central and Eastern European Jewish households as a Sabbath sugar vessel.

2. Construction: Hand-chased geometric engraving, period pin-hinge assembly, top finial secured via an underside screw thread, and hand-soldered applied feet.

3. Numerals/Maker Stamps: The single stamped "36" on the underside corresponds directly to 19th-century European workshop batch numbering systems (used to align matching lids and bases during fabrication prior to hand-engraving).

Reference

• Book Title: Jewish Art

• Author: Grace Cohen Grossman

• Reference Note: For related 19th-century Eastern European brass and silver-plated footed etrog containers featuring engraved floral motifs and stylized leaf feet, see discussion and plates on ritual Sukkot objects (pp. 142–148).

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