Bidspirit auction | “For on this day He

“For on this day He shall atone for you” (Leviticus 16:30) — special belt buckle for Yom HaKippurim, engraved with a verse, with repoussé lions and exceptional silver artistry. Poland, 19th century. Superb artistic workmanship: two repoussé lions supporting with their forepaws an oval medallion, raised and embossed, engraved by a master craftsman in distinctive, evenly-formed lettering with the verse: 'כי ביום הזה יכפר עליכם לטהר אתכם מכל חטאתיכם לפני ד' תטהרו' At the base of the buckle, a silver plate engraved with floral motifs, and along its curved edges, in an attached section, impressive lion reliefs whose heads are turned toward their backs. On the sides of the buckle are rounded loops for securing the belt. One loop is slightly bent. The buckle is relatively heavy compared to similar items: 214 grams. Base width: 8 cm. Length varies up to a maximum of 14 cm (excluding the loops). (For an item with similar characteristics, see: Toporowitch Collection, Genazim Sale, 19 Nov. 2024, lot 29) The item is silver, stamped on the reverse within the raised base plate (raised nearly 1 cm), complete. Very fine and well preserved. Significance of the silver buckle: This type of buckle was customary in many communities to be worn over the Kittel, the traditional white garment worn by Chassidim, men of stature, and even common folk on Yom HaKippurim, as a sign of the forgiveness of sins that takes place on Yom HaKippurim. The garment was girded with a belt and fastened with a buckle; for the distinguished members of the community, the buckle was made of pure silver in varying grades. In the present buckle, the quantity of silver is impressive and substantial; it is large, heavy, and artistic, and apparently served a distinguished member of the community — perhaps the Shliach Tzibbur, who discharged the congregation’s obligation on the holy day.