This charming antique kiddush cup is a fine example of early 20th-century Russian silversmithing, crafted in the Jewish ritual tradition. The cup features a tapered beaker form with four engraved panels depicting stylized floral and foliage motifs, including reeds and intertwined patterns, bordered by geometric dotted lines. Measuring approximately 1.5 inches tall and 1.5 inches in diameter at the rim, it weighs 12 grams, making it a petite yet elegant piece suitable for ceremonial use or display. The cup bears clear hallmarks on the base, confirming its authenticity and origin from the workshop of the heirs of renowned silversmith Israel Eseevich Zakhoder in Kiev. 

Origin: Kiev, Russian Empire (present-day Ukraine)

Age: Circa 1908-1917 (based on the kokoshnik hallmark style and imperial-era design; the heirs' mark was used post-1907, and the kokoshnik facing right was standard until 1926, but this piece aligns with pre-Soviet production)

Material: 875/1000 silver (84 zolotniki purity standard)

Condition: Good antique condition overall, with natural tarnish and patina consistent with over a century of age. Minor surface scratches and wear from handling, but no dents, repairs, or damage. The engravings remain sharp and detailed, and the structure is solid.

Hallmark Identification

• Oval lozenge with woman's head facing right and "84": This is the Russian assay mark, known as the second kokoshnik (named after the traditional headdress worn by the profiled woman). It certifies the silver purity as 84 zolotniki, equivalent to 875/1000 fineness. The head facing right, with the number to its right and a small Greek letter (likely kappa or a similar symbol for Kiev) on the left, dates the piece to 1908-1926. This mark was introduced under Tsar Nicholas II and used across the empire, including during the early Soviet transition.

• "HE3" mark (appearing as Cyrillic "ИЕЗ"): This is the maker's initials for Israel Eseevich Zakhoder (Израиль Есеевич Заходер), a prominent Jewish silversmith who established his workshop in 1851 in Berdichev, moved to Moscow until 1892, and then to Kiev until his death in 1907. The Cyrillic letters И (I), E (E), and З (Z, resembling a "3") represent his initials IEZ.

• "NJ" mark (appearing as Cyrillic "НЗ"): This stands for "Наследники З" (Nasledniki Z), meaning "Heirs of Zakhoder." It was used by his successors after 1907 to continue the family workshop, indicating this cup was produced posthumously under the established brand.

• Circular symbols flanking the marks: These are likely the assayer's or city marks. The left symbol (resembling a coat of arms or trident-like emblem) is the Kiev assay office indicator, often depicting Archangel Michael or a regional stamp. The right symbol may be an additional assayer's initial or quality control punch, common in Russian silver to denote the inspector (e.g., Lev Oleks or similar, as seen in some Zakhoder pieces).

Item Dimensions: 1.5" tall x 1.5" diameter

Weight of Item: 12 g