Up for sale is a modern Tzedakah box (Jewish charity box or Pushke), designed for everyday use in homes, offices, or synagogues to collect donations embodying the mitzvah of Tzedakah (righteous giving). It blends traditional symbolism with practical, user-friendly features like the plastic components, which prevent spills and simplify emptying—common in post-1990s Judaica production.

The box retains an elegant, semi-traditional aesthetic through its materials and detailing, making it appealing as both a functional item and decorative piece. It's constructed of polished red-toned wood (likely mahogany or rosewood for its warm, durable finish), forming a compact hexagonal prism (six-sided with subtle octagonal molding on edges for a refined, architectural look). Six oval sterling silver (925 purity) plaques adorn each face, providing a touch of luxury and cultural depth.

Key Physical Details

• Shape and Structure: Hexagonal body with a slanted or flat top featuring a coin slot (partially lined with plastic for smooth insertion). The base includes a plastic stopper or twist-lock mechanism for secure yet accessible coin removal— a hallmark of modern designs to avoid the mess of traditional unscrewing or hinged bases. Molded wood edges add ornate flair, evoking classic cabinetry while keeping the profile sleek.

• Materials and Craftsmanship:

• Body: Solid wood with a glossy varnish finish, showing light surface wear (e.g., minor scuffs on edges) but no deep aging like cracks or deep patina—consistent with 20–30-year-old production.

• Plaques: Six sterling silver (925 marked) ovals with embossed scrollwork or floral borders and central Hebrew engravings. The silver exhibits mild tarnish for character but remains bright and untarnished in spots, suggesting careful storage rather than heavy historical use. The mark "מפדק" (transliterated as "M.P.D.K.") on one plaque likely denotes a modern Israeli silversmith's initials or workshop abbreviation (common in Jerusalem-based Judaica ateliers like those from Hazorfim or Nadav Art; no exact match found, but similar to stylized Hebrew stamps on contemporary pieces). Other marks include "סג" (possibly "Segula" or a purity indicator) and standard 925 hallmarks.

• Inscriptions: Plaques feature traditional Tzedakah motifs in Hebrew, such as phrases like "Tzedakah Tatzil Mi-Mavet" ("Charity saves from death") or symbolic blessings—partially visible but elegantly rendered without dates or personalization.

• Condition: Excellent for modern use—minimal wear on wood, silver intact with no dents but slight scuffs, and plastic components functional. No repairs needed.

• Age: Modern, likely 1990s–2010s production (20–35 years old), based on the plastic stopper (a feature popularized in the late 20th century for child-safe, spill-proof designs) and clean craftsmanship without the heavy patina of pre-WWII antiques. The lack of an 1886 date confirms it's not vintage; instead, it reflects post-1980s Israeli revival of Judaica blending old-world engraving with modern convenience.

• Origin: Israel, probably Jerusalem or Haifa workshops (e.g., influenced by silversmiths like Avi Nadav or Hazorfim studios). The Hebrew engravings, 925 silver standard (Israeli hallmark), and hexagonal form with wood-silver combo are staples of contemporary Israeli Judaica exports. Such boxes surged in popularity during the 1990s economic boom in Jewish ritual art, often sold via U.S. Judaica retailers.

Usage: Intended for collecting loose change, bills, or small donations for Jewish charities (e.g., feeding the needy, synagogue funds). The top slot accommodates coins/bills easily, while the bottom plastic stopper allows quick, mess-free emptying—ideal for families or offices. Beyond function, it's decorative: place on a shelf for visual inspiration, or use during holidays like Rosh Hashanah to teach tzedakah values. The hexagonal shape nods to Jewish symbolism (e.g., completeness or the Magen David).

Item dimensions: 5 in tall × 4.5 in wide × 4.5 in deep  

Weight of item only: 10.5 oz