19th Century Sterling Silver Spice Box
19th century
caption:
Spice Box from Austria/Hungry, tower shaped, mid-19th century. Five flags on top and four corners, hinged door, set on quadrangular stem with double hemispherical base. Inscribed with manufacturer’s mark, “EE”.
Identifer: CJF.2009.001.143
Medium
Silver
Topics
Items on Display; Shabbat
Collection
University of Cincinnati Hillel Collection
Description
The Havdalah service marks the end of Shabbat, on Saturdaynight. Three things are necessary for this ritual: a glass of wine or other liquid, fragrant spaces and a special Havdalah candle. The second blessing is recited over fragrant spices; these represent a compensation for the loss of the special sabbath spirit. These spices are commonly kept in a special decorated box called a b'samim box.
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