Jerusalem Scenic Repoussé Sterling Silver Kiddush Cup
Hollowware - Judaica (Kiddush Cup/Chalice) · Likely an Israeli workshop specializing in Judaica, such as Hazorfim, Bier, or Karshi. These makers are renowned for blending traditional Jewish ceremonial needs with late 20th-century craftsmanship.
Pattern: Jerusalem Scenic Pattern; characterized by a 360-degree repoussé depiction of the Walls of Jerusalem and the Old City. This is a perpetual pattern in Judaica silver.
Type
Hollowware - Judaica (Kiddush Cup/Chalice)
Maker
Likely an Israeli workshop specializing in Judaica, such as Hazorfim, Bier, or Karshi. These makers are renowned for blending traditional Jewish ceremonial needs with late 20th-century craftsmanship.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling silver as indicated by the '925' stamp, likely with a polished interior to meet ritual wine-serving requirements.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 12-15 cm (4.7-5.9 inches); Estimated weight: 80-120 grams. This falls within the standard size for an individual ceremonial Kiddush cup.
Description
This striking sterling silver Kiddush cup features an intricate, high-relief landscape of the Old City of Jerusalem. The architectural details of the Western Wall and arched portals are rendered with significant depth, creating a tactile and visually rich surface. The cup transitions from the ornate bowl to a sleek, polished baluster stem, concluding in a weighted base that provides both elegance and stability for Sabbath and holiday table settings.
Key Features
Highly detailed 3D repoussé of Jerusalem walls; Modern '925' mark; baluster knop stem; tiered architectural base design.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The piece is solid sterling silver as indicated by the '925' stamp, likely with a polished interior to meet ritual wine-serving requirements.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and chasing depicting architectural elements including stone masonry, arched windows, and domes. Features a mirror-polished stem and a tiered circular base with engraved radiating lines.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A clear '925' numerical stamp is visible on the edge of the base, signifying sterling silver. There may be additional small hallmarks or a 'Made in Israel' stamp on the underside not visible in this view.
Construction Details
The cup is composed of three main parts: a die-struck or hand-chased bowl, a cast baluster stem, and a spun base, all joined via silver soldering.
Functional Features
Designed for ritual use, featuring a flared rim for ease of drinking and a stable, weighted base to prevent tipping during the blessing of the wine.
Handle & Grip Details
The baluster-style stem serves as the grip, featuring a knop (rounded protrusion) for ergonomic handling and aesthetic balance.
Craftsmanship Details
Combines mechanical forming (the bowl and base) with hand-finishing or high-quality casting for the scenic details. The joinery at the stem is seamless, indicating professional workshop standards.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' mark is consistent with modern silver standards. The casting quality of the buildings and the specific style of the stem are hallmarks of established Israeli Judaica manufacturers.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel, specifically workshops in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. Israeli silverwork often combines traditional motifs with modern industrial casting or stamping techniques.
Era & Period
Modern Judaica (late 20th Century to Contemporary). The style is a revivalist interpretation of the 'Jerusalem of Gold' motif popularized after 1967.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2010. The style of the '925' stamp and the crispness of the architectural casting suggest a relatively modern manufacture date.
Cultural Significance
Essential for the sanctification of the Sabbath (Kiddush) and Jewish festivals. These cups are often gifted for Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, or as family heirlooms to be passed through generations.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The surface retains a high polish with minimal tarnish. Some light surface scratches are consistent with gentle ritual use. No visible dents or structural repairs.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD depending on the specific maker's mark on the bottom and the total gram weight.
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a soft cloth and a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Avoid silver dips which can strip the intentional oxidation (darkening) that provides contrast to the architectural details.
Similar Pieces
Yemenite Filigree Kiddush Cups (which use wire-work instead of repoussé); Tiffany & Co. Sterling Goblets (typically more minimalist); Georg Jensen chalices (Art Nouveau/Acorn motifs).
Interesting Facts
The depiction of the Walls of Jerusalem on Kiddush cups became a globally recognized symbol of Jewish identity and longing for Zion, especially increasing in production and variety following the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967.