Israeli Repoussé Jerusalem Old City Kiddush Cup in Sterling Silver
Hollowware - Kiddush Cup / Goblet / Beaker · Unknown Israeli Silversmith / Producer (frequently produced by artists associated with Jerusalem workshops, Hazorfim, or Hadad Bros styles)
Pattern: Jerusalem Architecture / Old City Motif
Type
Hollowware - Kiddush Cup / Goblet / Beaker
Maker
Unknown Israeli Silversmith / Producer (frequently produced by artists associated with Jerusalem workshops, Hazorfim, or Hadad Bros styles)
Material
Likely Israeli Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade silver, standard for Judaica ritual objects produced in Israel
Dimensions
Estimated height of approximately 7 to 10 cm (2.75 to 4 inches) with a flared trumpet bowl and weighted or flared foot base, weighing roughly 40 to 80 grams
Description
An exquisite silver Kiddush cup featuring a dramatic flared form adorned with high-relief repoussé depicting the ancient stone buildings, domes, and arches of Jerusalem's Old City. A textured row of silver beads divides the upper architectural frieze from the flared pedestal foot, which is similarly trimmed with beading. The oxidized background adds depth and contrast, making the architectural details pop against the reflective highlights.
Key Features
High-relief Jerusalem Old City architectural frieze, classic trumpet Kiddush cup silhouette, and decorative beaded wire borders
Material & Composition
Likely Israeli Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade silver, standard for Judaica ritual objects produced in Israel
Finish & Decoration
Polished finish with dark oxidation in recessed areas to highlight the high-relief repoussé architectural details; featuring stylized motifs of the walls, domes, and arches of the Old City of Jerusalem, accented with beaded borders around the lower midsection and foot rim
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the provided image; typical Israeli silver features a hallmark indicating purity (such as '925' or 'Sterling') and a maker's mark or symbol, often accompanied by a Hebrew stamp
Construction Details
Likely formed by spinning or raising a sheet of silver, followed by repoussé and chasing work to push out the architectural design from the exterior, with applied or chased beaded wire trim
Functional Features
Designed specifically for the Jewish ritual of Kiddush, sanctifying the Sabbath or holidays over a cup of wine
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless trumpet-shaped beaker form, ergonomically designed to be held securely around the narrower waist or lower stem above the flared base
Craftsmanship Details
Combination of machine forming (for the base vessel shape) and skilled hand-embossing/repoussé work for the intricate architectural details, showing a solid standard of mid-century artisan Judaica production
Authentication Indicators
Traditional Judaica stylistic motifs, consistent repoussé technique of mid-century Israeli silver workshops, appropriate natural tarnish and silver oxidation patterns
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Israel (specifically Jerusalem or Tel Aviv silversmithing traditions)
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century / Contemporary Judaica (c. 1950s - present)
Age Estimate
Estimated circa 1960-1990 based on the revival and popularity of mid-century Israeli decorative Judaica
Cultural Significance
Deeply significant in Jewish ritual art, used weekly for the Sabbath meal and during major festivals to elevate and sanctify holy days through the blessing over wine
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with moderate, natural tarnish and patina in the recessed areas; surface shows minor hairline scratches consistent with light handling and age, with no apparent structural damage or major dents
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $75 to $200 USD depending on the exact silver weight, maker's mark attribution, and overall condition
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft microfibered silver polishing cloth or specialized silver cream like Wright's; avoid harsh abrasive dips that strip away the intentional antiqued dark finish in the recessed details
Similar Pieces
Similar Kiddush cups produced by Israeli silversmiths such as Hazorfim, Bier, or contemporary artisans featuring cityscapes, menorahs, or biblical scenes
Interesting Facts
Jerusalem-themed Kiddush cups became exceptionally popular souvenirs and wedding gifts following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, symbolizing a deep spiritual and cultural connection to the Holy Land