A silver menorah is a beautiful decoration for your home. At 1stDibs you can find antique and vintage examples from the 18th Century, as well as modern editions.
A menorah is a nine-candle candelabra that reminds Jews of the miracle of Hanukkah, when oil burned for eight days. It typically has a middle candle holder, known as the’shamash’, which is used for lighting the other candles.
Symbolism
The menorah is an important symbol of the Jewish faith and it is also the national symbol of Israel. It is lit during Hanukkah, the Jewish holiday that commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the temple after the Maccabees liberated Jerusalem. There are many different designs for menorahs, but they all feature seven candleholders. A variant of the menorah is called a Hanukkiah and it has nine candleholders.
In Jewish tradition, the seven branches of the menorah represent the days of creation, with the central branch representing Shabbat. It is also said that the seven candles of the menorah symbolize the radiance of God’s presence on earth. The menorah is a powerful symbol of the Jewish people’s faith and hope, as well as their determination to overcome adversity and live with dignity and respect. The menorah is also a reminder of the need for light in our lives and the need to spread that light to others.
History
The silver menorah was a family treasure. It grew from the hands of a skilled silversmith who crafted it for a daughter’s wedding to a son of the town’s chief rabbi. As the years passed, and a war ravaged Europe, Avram Leidman’s menorah was one of the few things that he could take with him when he fled to safety.
The artifact symbolized both the miracle of Hanukkah and a connection to his father, who died in 1944 or 1945 at Bellefaire, an institution for orphans and children from broken homes. The family still lights this menorah each year and passes along its story to their children.
A modern silver menorah can be a striking decorative object. Designed by Judaica artisans, these sophisticated candelabras usually feature Hebrew inscriptions and embossed Biblical scenes. Some also display symbols from the Twelve Tribes of Israel or popular motifs like flowers and hearts. In addition to sterling silver, upscale menorahs come in gold, bronze and other metals.
Materials
The silver menorah has evolved over the centuries, but its essentials remain unchanged. The menorah should feature eight candle or oil receptacles, plus one more for the shammash (helper) candle. Candles may be wax or oil, and a menorah that uses oil is preferable because it honors the miracle of Hanukkah, which happened when a small cruse of oil lasted for eight days.
You can find a wide range of silver menorahs at 1stDibs, from traditional pieces made by Israeli Judaica designer Ester Shahaf to modern editions with Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern influences. If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider a custom-engraved menorah from Hazorfim, the leading manufacturer of sterling silver objects in Israel. Founded in 1952, the company employs a staff of skilled European emigre artisans. Their work has been exhibited in museums and adorns the homes of prominent figures, including King Hussein and Vladimir Putin. These elegant, traditional menorahs are crafted with pweter and accentuated with silver accents to create a filigree effect.
Styles
If you’re looking to make a real statement with your Hanukkah menorah this year, try this gorgeous sterling silver beauty. It’s designed in remembrance of the original golden Menorah that was at the Jewish holy temple in Jerusalem.
It features a very unique harp-like design that is sure to catch everyone’s eye. This menorah will definitely upgrade your living room from a regular boring one to something that is truly special for the Jewish holidays.
This is a sitting Hanukkiah, meaning that it stands low rather than being on top of the candles. It is 925 silver plated and very ornate. This is a beautiful Hanukkiah that will be a wonderful family heirloom for generations to come. It’s also a great choice for those who follow Chabad customs. It even has a Shamash that is held higher than the rest and removed to light the other candles. This is a very grand Hanukkiah that will be the center of attention.
