This antique brass hanging Hanukkah oil lamp, often referred to as a hanukkiah, is a compact triangular piece designed for wall mounting during the Jewish festival of Chanukkah. Crafted from solid brass with a rich, aged patina that includes greenish verdigris and brownish oxidation, it features intricate pierced decorations: a central dotted rosette motif near the top, symbolizing floral or solar elements common in North African Judaica, and a row of silhouette cutouts along one side resembling small figures, oil lamps, or architectural arches—likely evoking traditional Islamic or Sephardic influences. The functional side includes nine bulbous oil reservoirs shaped like small bottles, each with a narrow spout for holding olive oil and wicks. A small hanging loop or hook at the apex allows for easy wall display. The base measures approximately 6.5 inches wide, providing stability, while the overall height to the tip is 5.5 inches, making it portable and suitable for travel or small spaces. Weighing 1.5 pounds, it feels substantial for its size, indicative of high-quality cast brass construction without modern alloys. There are no visible maker's marks, but the handmade irregularities in the casting and piercings suggest artisanal craftsmanship.
Age: Late 19th to early 20th century (approximately 100-150 years old), based on the style, patina, and comparison to similar documented pieces from that era.
Origin: Likely North African, possibly Moroccan or Algerian, reflecting Sephardic Jewish traditions influenced by local Islamic art motifs. Similar designs were common among Jewish communities in the Maghreb region during the Ottoman period or French colonial era.
Item dimensions: 5 5/8" tall × 7 1/8" wide × 2" deep Â
Weight of item: 1 lb 7 oz
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