Israeli Repoussé Jerusalem Cityscape Kiddush Cup in Sterling Silver
Hollowware (Kiddush Cup / Beaker) · Unknown Israeli Silversmith / Hazorfim or similar traditional Jerusalem workshop (commonly produced by Israeli artists working in the mid-to-late 20th century)
Pattern: Jerusalem Architecture / Old City Motifs, widely popular in Judaica silver production throughout the 20th century
Type
Hollowware (Kiddush Cup / Beaker)
Maker
Unknown Israeli Silversmith / Hazorfim or similar traditional Jerusalem workshop (commonly produced by Israeli artists working in the mid-to-late 20th century)
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), standard for fine Israeli Judaica objects
Dimensions
Estimated small-to-medium size Kiddush cup, approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in height with a flared base, weighing roughly 30 to 50 grams
Description
This charming sterling silver Kiddush cup features a flared rim, a tapering conical bowl, and an elegant pedestal foot. The body is richly decorated in high-relief repoussé, depicting an architectural frieze of Jerusalem featuring ancient stone walls, arches, and rooftops. Distinctive applied beaded wire borders accent the transition to the foot and the base edge, adding texture and a finished look to this ceremonial vessel.
Key Features
Detailed repoussé Jerusalem cityscape frieze, applied beaded borders, tapered beaker form with a supportive flared base
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), standard for fine Israeli Judaica objects
Finish & Decoration
Polished high-relief repoussé and chasing depicting the ancient walls and buildings of Jerusalem, accented with applied beaded borders (bead and reel) at the lower stem and flared foot
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image, but typically marked with '925' and maker's Hebrew or Latin initials on the base rim for Israeli export silver
Construction Details
Likely formed by spinning or raising the cylindrical-conical body, followed by repoussé hand-chasing of the architectural details from the exterior and interior, with soldered foot ring and applied beaded wire trim
Functional Features
Flared rim for comfortable drinking, weighted or sturdy flared pedestal foot for stability during ritual blessings
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless beaker design, relying on the tapered waist and textured relief surface for an ergonomic, secure grip
Craftsmanship Details
Combination of machine-formed base body with skilled hand-chased architectural detailing and hand-soldered applied wire trim
Authentication Indicators
Consistent with mid-century Israeli export silver production; tactile relief depth and handmade chasing characteristics support genuine silver construction rather than cheap plating
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Israel (likely Jerusalem or Tel Aviv), combining traditional Middle Eastern repoussé techniques with Jewish ceremonial art
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (circa 1950-1980s), reflecting post-WWII revival of traditional Judaica craftsmanship in Israel
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980, based on stylistic conventions of post-independence Israeli decorative silver
Cultural Significance
Deeply tied to Jewish religious observance, domestic ritual, and Zionist cultural expression, symbolizing the spiritual and physical connection to Jerusalem
Condition Notes
Very good overall vintage condition. Moderate tarnish present in the recessed areas of the repoussé design, which naturally highlights the architectural details. No major dents, splits, or structural repairs visible.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $75 to $200 USD depending on exact silver weight, maker attribution, and overall condition
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and specialized silver polish like Wright's Silver Cream, avoiding harsh scrubbing that could flatten the delicate repoussé relief. Store in a tarnish-resistant pouch.
Similar Pieces
Similar Kiddush cups produced by Hazorfim, Hadad Brothers, or other Israeli silversmiths featuring walled city or seven-species motifs
Interesting Facts
Kiddush cups are central to Jewish ritual life, used for the blessing over wine on Shabbat and holidays. Jerusalem cityscapes became an immensely popular motif for Israeli silversmiths following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948