Bidspirit auction | Magnificent Etrog Box of White

Magnificent Etrog Box of White Marble, Lapis Lazuli, and Silver-Gilt – Crafted by Yaakov Davidoff, Jerusalem, Late 20th Century - This extraordinary etrog box, created by the renowned Judaica artist Yaakov Davidoff in Jerusalem in the late 20th century, is a true masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. Davidoff, who is still alive today and continues to produce exceptional ritual art in his Jerusalem workshop, is celebrated for combining architectural grandeur with symbolic artistry. His creations, such as this remarkable etrog box, are treasured by collectors and institutions alike for their unique blend of modern craftsmanship and timeless Jewish tradition. The box is constructed primarily of white marble, fashioned in gadroon style at both the domed top and rounded lower section, giving the piece an elegant organic fruit-like silhouette. Atop the hinged cover rests a finely cast gilt finial in the form of an etrog or pomegranate, which swings open to reveal a spacious, gilt-lined interior designed to house the sacred etrog during the festival of Sukkot. Framing the central body are three trellis-patterned pierced silver-gilt panels in foliate design, depicting branches and flowing leaves. Behind each pierced plaque lies an engraved silver scene, giving depth and striking contrast: Front Panel: Jewish workers building a sukkah, symbolizing preparation and devotion. Side Panel I: Men in traditional attire at a bustling market, carefully inspecting lulavim to ensure their ritual fitness. Side Panel II: A joyous family seated in the sukkah, rejoicing, singing, and partaking in the holiday’s celebration. The structure is supported by four lapis lazuli marble columns, each capped with ornate gilded minaret-shaped finials and resting on rich gilded bases, harmoniously balancing the strong geometry with ornamental detail. The entire piece rests upon three elongated gilt bracket feet, providing a sense of both elevation and regal stability. Overall, this etrog box is an outstanding creation of Yaakov Davidoff, merging luxurious materials—marble, lapis lazuli, and silver-gilt—with symbolic Judaic narrative and refined artistry. It exemplifies Davidoff's mastery and remains a shining testament to the vitality of contemporary Judaica art still being produced in Jerusalem today. Yaakov Davidoff is a celebrated Israeli silversmith and Judaica artist, internationally recognized for his intricate, hand-crafted ceremonial works. Blending traditional Jewish ritual art with stylistic influences from Russian and European design, Davidoff’s creations are instantly recognizable for their architectural inspiration, lavish enamel ornamentation, and use of sterling silver overlaid with 24-carat gold. Each work is painstakingly made by hand in Israel, often taking months to complete, and reflects both devotion to Jewish tradition and a mastery of artistic technique. His pieces are treasured by collectors and synagogues worldwide as some of the most innovative and opulent Judaica of the modern era. 27cm W., 22cm D., 30cm H.