Bidspirit auction | Important and Magnificent Silver Megillah

Important and Magnificent Silver Megillah Case – “Bezalel”, Jerusalem, Early 20th Century – with Original Esther Scroll - An impressive and rare silver Megillah case, handcrafted in the Bezalel School of Arts and Crafts, Jerusalem, combining fine filigree, detailed etching, and high-quality repoussé work. This creation represents the height of early Eretz-Israel silversmithing—an artistic fusion of Eastern ornamental tradition, European craftsmanship, and Biblical symbolism. The main body is richly adorned with meticulous filigree work featuring grapevines, pomegranates, and vegetal motifs encircling the entire piece, combining a sense of movement, sanctity, and vitality. At its center appears a large medallion with a magnificent relief depicting Queen Esther seated upon her royal throne, set upon a tiled floor supported by columns. Above her is the scene of Haman leading Mordechai on horseback, with the verse inscribed in elegant lettering: “Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor.” Beneath the scene appears the inscription “Megillat Esther” in large, decorative letters. On either side of the head of the case are two small medallions—one depicting a view of Jerusalem’s walls, and the other the Tower of David—symbols linking the deliverance of Purim to the redemption of Jerusalem. The design reflects the classic “Bezalel” style: a synthesis of Jewish identity, Biblical imagery, and meticulous craftsmanship. The pulling rod bears the workshop hallmark “Bezalel Jerusalem”, confirming its authenticity. The rod itself serves as a hollow handle for removing the scroll, and at its end (now missing) was a small suspension ring. The case contains an “Esther HaMelech” Megillah, written on fine, polished parchment in a careful Sephardic–Oriental script. It appears original and contemporary with the creation of the case, making this an exceptionally complete and rare ensemble. Total length: approx. 45.5 cm | Height / scroll width: approx. 19 cm Condition: Good; minor wear to the etched decorations, slight dents and bends, and the small pulling-ring missing. This exceptional object is both a work of art and a ritual treasure, among the most significant examples of Bezalel silver Judaica. It embodies the Jerusalem spirit of the early Zionist era, where holiness and artistry, tradition and renewal, merged into one—a living monument in silver to the glory of the Megillah and the reborn art of Bezalel.