This exquisite antique Hanukkah menorah, also known as a chanukiah, features an ornate openwork design crafted in the Art Nouveau style popular around the turn of the 20th century. The central motif showcases two crowned lions (symbolizing the Lions of Judah) flanking a pair of tablets inscribed with the Hebrew abbreviations of the Ten Commandments. Below the tablets is a stylized urn or chalice with floral and scroll accents, adding to the intricate detailing. The base consists of a drip tray with nine integrated oil cups—eight for the nights of Hanukkah and one central shamash —designed for oil burning. A loop at the top allows for wall hanging, making it ideal for display or ritual use. The piece exhibits a rich, dark patina with areas of verdigris and wear, enhancing its vintage appeal. This chanukiah is a fine example of early 20th-century Judaica, blending religious symbolism with artistic craftsmanship.

Origin: Likely Eastern European, possibly from Poland (e.g., Warsaw) or surrounding regions, based on similar pieces from Jewish communities in that area during the late 19th to early 20th century. Many comparable menorahs were produced in brass workshops serving Ashkenazi Jewish populations. The style and motifs are consistent with European Judaica from this era, often exported or used in diaspora communities.

Age: Circa 1900; this dating aligns with the Art Nouveau influences in the scrolling foliage and animal motifs, which were prominent between 1890 and 1910. No maker's marks are visible in the images, but the craftsmanship and patina support an early 20th-century origin.

Condition: Good antique condition with expected signs of age and use. The surface shows oxidation, patina, and minor pitting consistent with over a century of exposure. There is visible wear on high points, such as the lions' manes and the tablet inscriptions, where the original brass tone peeks through the darker finish. The back reveals a brassy undertone where the oil pan connects, likely the base metal exposed from handling or cleaning. In the bottom left corner, a silver-like color appears, which may be solder from a period repair or original assembly—common in cast pieces of this type and not indicative of inauthenticity. No breaks, cracks, or missing parts; the structure is solid.

Material: Cast brass or more likely bronze alloy; this is evidenced by the non-magnetic property, the brassy undertones visible through wear, and the weight/density typical of such metals. Many similar Judaica items from this period were made in brass for durability and affordability, often with an applied patina or paint to mimic aged bronze. The silver color on the back is likely solder or a repair material, while the blackish finish is patina from oxidation.

Item dimensions: 10" tall × 8.75" wide × 3" deep  

Weight of item only: 3 lb 5.8 oz