Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
$1,200.00 USD

For sale is a stunning antique North African Hanukkah menorah, a rare example of 19th-century Sephardic Judaica from the Maghreb region (likely Morocco or Algeria). Unlike similar appearing pieces, this menorah was crafted from heavy cast bronze, and weighs just over 4 pounds, reflecting its solid construction typical of traditional lost-wax casting techniques used by North African artisans. Measuring 11 inches high, 9 inches wide, and 2.5 inches deep, this piece features an ornate backplate with intricate pierced designs—possibly including floral scrolls, birds, or lions—blending Islamic and Jewish motifs. The design includes eight rectangular oil fonts for the nights of Hanukkah and a ninth elevated shamash font, adhering to the traditional layout for a Chanukiah. We've come across many North African menorahs over the years and this one is by far the heaviest and thickest construction we've seen.

It showcases a rich dark brown patina with green verdigris, indicative of its age and authentic use over time. Originating from the late 19th century, this artifact reflects the resilience of Jewish communities under Ottoman or colonial rule, making it a significant cultural and historical piece. 

Condition is excellent for its age, with natural wear including minor verdigris and surface rust, but no damage observed. 

Perfect for collectors of ethnographic antiques, religious artifacts, or those interested in North African heritage. Ideal for pre-Hanukkah display or as a unique addition to a Judaica collection. 

Item Specifics:

  • Maker: Unknown (Handcrafted by North African artisan, likely from a Jewish community in Morocco or Algeria, unsigned as is typical for 19th-century Judaica)

  • Age: Circa 1800-1900 (19th Century, based on stylistic and construction analysis)

  • Original/Reproduction: Original

  • Color: Dark Brown with Green Verdigris Patina

  • Material: Bronze (Heavy cast, possibly with traces of brass; solid construction suggests traditional lost-wax casting technique)

  • Style: North African Sephardic, Traditional Judaica

  • Condition Description: Used, with signs of age including natural patina and minor wear. Oil fonts appear intact but untested for functionality. No major damage noted; some verdigris and surface rust consistent with 19th-century metalwork. Cleaned gently to preserve original finish. 

Item dimensions: 11" tall × 9 " wide × 2.5" deep  

Weight of item: 4 lb 4 oz

Styled With
Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
1/19
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina
  • Antique 19th Century North African Bronze Hanukkah Menorah Oil Lamp - Heavy Cast Judaica with Traditional Motifs, Excellent Patina

You may also like