Bidspirit auction | Magnificent Silver Etrog Box –

Magnificent Silver Etrog Box – New York Work by Ball, Black & Co. Early 20th Century - An impressive and elegant etrog box crafted in .925 silver, produced in New York in the early 20th century by the prestigious firm Ball, Black & Co. Hallmarked on the underside: BALL, BLACK & CO. / NEW-YORK / 925. A refined ceremonial object designed for holding the etrog during the festival of Sukkot, executed with rich artistic workmanship and abundant detail. The body is flanked on both sides by bold and striking bull heads in relief. Set into the sides are medallions bearing rare Jewish motifs: on one side the figure of Aaron the High Priest, and on the other the Ark of the Covenant, modeled after the well-known medal issued in Paris in the 19th century. The upper section of the box bears a fine hand-engraved inscription of the biblical verse: “And you shall take for yourselves the fruit of a beautiful tree” (Leviticus 23:40), alongside the owner’s name: Yitzchak bar Chaim Shor, of blessed memory. The addition of zatzal indicates that the box was likely commissioned after his passing by family members in order to preserve his memory. Atop the lid stands a lion grasping a shield, lending the piece a regal and symbolic presence. A rare combination of high-quality American silver craftsmanship with distinctly Jewish motifs, reflecting special commissions for the affluent Jewish market of early 20th-century New York. A decorative yet functional object of especially commanding presence. Dimensions: Length 20 cm; maximum height 16 cm; maximum width 12 cm. Weight: 786 grams. Condition: Very good.