For sale is an authentic mid-20th-century Israeli solid silver tower-form Besamim (Havdalah spice box). Standing a tall 10 inches and weighing 149 grams, this piece features hand-chased accents, an open belfry housing a suspended silver bell, four standing corner eagles, and a hinged access door for aromatic spices.

Hallmark Breakdown:

1. Purity Standard Stamp (835): Located on the lower rim/foot in a rectangular punch, confirming an 83.5% solid silver content (a standard continental and mid-century Israeli silver alloy).

2. National / State Mark (Lion Rampant / Standing Lion): The center punch displays a profile of a lion, representing the Lion of Judah, widely used as an Israeli state/assay control symbol on mid-20th-century silver products.

3. Maker’s / Workshop Mark (h or stylized symbol): Stamped to the left of the lion punch, indicating the specific workshop/artisan in Israel.

4. Export / Origin Stamp (MADE IN ISRAEL): Clear, double-line block lettering stamped adjacent to the hallmarking punches, mandated for silver items produced in Israel for international export during the 1950s–1970s.

Design Details:

Spire & Belfry: Conical spire capped by a sweeping notched pennant flag. The openwork belfry encloses a free-swinging internal silver bell, flanked by four sculpted corner eagles.

Spice Chamber: Cylindrical body embellished with hand-chased zigzag line borders and an operable hinged access door with a loop handle.

Base: Knopped stem over a domed foot supported by three stylized repoussé foliate and grape cluster tripod feet.

Specifications:

• Material: .835 Solid Silver
• Height: 10 inches (25.4 cm)
• Weight: 149.0 Grams (4.79 troy oz)
• Origin: Israel
• Age: Mid-20th Century (c. 1950s–1970s)

Condition Report:

Excellent vintage condition overall. The structural integrity is sound with no solder repairs or cracks. The hinged door opens and closes securely. The internal bell is intact and fully functional. Light, natural surface patina and minor micro-scratches consistent with age and gentle handling. Beautiful uncleaned patina preserved in recessed areas.

Authenticity Assessment:

The piece exhibits classic markers of authentic mid-20th-century Israeli silver fabrication. Construction features multi-part soldered assembly with hand-chased and engine-turned zigzag border embellishments on the central spice cylinder. Struck hallmark punches display crisp displacement borders rather than soft cast-in marks. The spreading base features authentic three-point foot pads secured directly to the stamped base rim, with genuine age-appropriate oxidation inside the belfry and hinge knuckle.

Reference:

For a similar architectural treatment in Judaica spice towers, see "Tower of Spices: Spice Containers from the Collection of The Jewish Museum, New York" by Vivian B. Mann, Page 42, Figure 18.

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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.

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