For your consideration is a museum-grade 18th-century engraved pewter Purim plate (Mishloach Manot) of exceptional historical importance. This plate is a primary-source document of Alsatian Jewish life, featuring a comprehensive "wriggle-work" (tremolostich) colophon in an extremely rare "perfect storm" of provenance that identifies the artisan, location, and precise date of completion.

The inscriptions are as follows:

• Outer Rim: The traditional Purim verses from Esther 9:22: "Sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor."

• Inner Colophon: "I, the writer [engraver], Israel son of Meir from Bischwiller... finished Friday, Eve of the Holy Sabbath, Sivan, [5]521." This corresponds to June 1761.

• Central Motif: A masterfully executed sunburst and floral design, likely surrounding the initials of the original owner for whom the plate was commissioned, or a "Purim" related abbreviation (or a specific family name).

The plate was produced in Bischwiller (מבשגיל), Alsace. Signed Judaica from this period is remarkably scarce; the presence of the maker's name and the exact day of the week (Friday) provides a level of provenance rarely seen outside of major museum collections.

The Town Identification: The town name engraved (מבשגיל) is Bischwiller (often spelled Bischweiler in German or Bischwiller in French), located in the Alsace region. Historically, this area on the French-German border had a thriving Jewish community known for its unique "Western Yiddish" traditions and distinctive pewter-engraving styles.

The Hallmarks: The reverse shows "Angel" marks (Michael the Archangel with scales). These are common on 18th-century Continental pewter (particularly from the Germanic/Alsatian regions) to indicate the quality of the alloy. The presence of the name "LANG" or similar in the hallmark refers to the pewterer who cast te blank plate, while Israel ben Meir was the artisan who performed the "Hebraicizing" engraving.

Origin, Age & Material

• Origin: Bischwiller, Alsace (Hebraicized as Mebshwiller in the inscription).

• Date: Sivan 5521 (June 1760).

• Material: Fine Heavy-Gauge Pewter.

• Hallmarks: Reverse features "Angel" quality marks (Michael the Archangel with scales) and a maker’s touchmark (LANG), typical of high-quality 18th-century Rhine Valley pewter.

• Dimensions: 10" Diameter.

Condition

Superb antique condition. The pewter retains a soft, unpolished grey patina that serious collectors prefer. The engraving is crisp and deep. Expected light surface wear and minor knife marks consistent with ritual use over 260+ years. No cracks, pitting, or repairs.

Reference Citation

Book Title: Pewter of the Western World, 1600-1850

Author: Peter R. G. Hornsby

Page Number: Similar Alsatian engraved plates and 18th-century "Angel" hallmarks are discussed on pages 174–176.

Note: For Alsatian-specific context, see Jewish Life in the Village and Town by Freddy Raphaël and Robert Weyl.

Item dimensions: 0.5" × 10" diameter

Weight of item only: 1 lb 4.6 oz

Shipping calculated by eBay/USPS/UPS based on your ZIP code.

Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

Customer Service Commitment

We truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you'd like additional photos or have questions about an item, we're more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible--certainly before submitting feedback--so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we'll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.