This is an antique five-arm brass Sabbath candelabrum (also known as a Shabbat candelabrum or multi-branch menorah-style holder), a traditional Judaic ritual object used in Jewish households for lighting candles to welcome the Sabbath. Crafted from solid brass with intricate openwork repoussé and chased decoration, it features symmetrical mythical bird motifs—likely stylized griffins, peacocks, or double-headed eagles (common in Eastern European Judaica symbolizing protection and divine watchfulness)—intertwined with floral scrolls, acanthus leaves, and geometric filigree. The central stem rises from a circular footed base, flaring into a tiered, baluster-form shaft that supports five curved, drip-paned arms, each terminating in a flared socket for taper candles. The design is highly ornate, with embossed detailing on the arms, stem, and base, giving it a Baroque-inspired aesthetic typical of 19th-century synagogue or domestic liturgical ware. The piece exhibits authentic signs of age, including a rich, uneven dark patina (verdigris oxidation) on the underside and crevices, minor dents, and subtle wear on high-touch areas like the candle sockets, which enhance its historical character without detracting from structural integrity. It holds five standard taper candles. No maker's marks or hallmarks are visible, consistent with many handcrafted Eastern European examples.

Age: Late 19th century (circa 1870-1900), based on stylistic comparisons to documented Polish-Jewish brassware from that era. The repoussé technique, motif density, and patina align with pieces produced during the height of Eastern European Jewish metalworking traditions before mass industrialization.

Usage: Primarily liturgical - Used in observant Jewish homes or synagogues to hold five Sabbath candles, lit on Friday evenings to usher in Shabbat (with the central flame often symbolizing the Shema prayer). The five arms represent the five books of the Torah or basic household blessing lights. It can also serve as a decorative centerpiece for holidays or general illumination, though modern electric adaptations are common. Not a Hanukkah menorah (which has nine branches).

Origin: Likely Poland or Eastern Europe (Galicia region, now parts of Poland/Ukraine), from a Jewish artisan workshop in a shtetl community. This style proliferated among Ashkenazi Jews during the 19th century, influenced by local Baroque and Rococo metalworking fused with symbolic Judaic iconography. The bird motifs echo heraldic elements from Polish nobility adapted for religious use.

Item dimensions: 16 in tall × 14.25 in wide × 6 in deep  

Weight of item only: 5 lb