German Silver Spice Tower - Antique Circa 1890

This exceptional antique German silver spice box has been modelled in the form of a tower.

The tiered cylindrical spice box is ornamented with exceptional silver filigree work within a plain geometric frame.

This impressive example of antique silverware is fitted with a hinged door accented with a plain loop fingerpiece with a plain lozenge shaped terminal.

The upper portion of this impressive silver spice tower* is embellished with a knopped tapering chute, encompassed with bands of tooled decoration and terminating with a large undulating guidon flag design.

The spice compartment surmounts a cylindrical tapering pedestal, reflecting the same ornamentation to the chute, to a circular spreading base.

The hallmarks to the foot of this German silver spice tower include:

National mark: Crescent moon and crown

Silver quality/purity mark: 800 (800/1000)

Maker's mark: H. Meyen & Co

* A spice box is used to hold sweet-smelling herbs/spices and can be fashioned in many forms. As of the 16th century a very common form is that of a tower, influenced by developments in architecture. The spice tower is used to bring comfort to a Jew as they transition through Sabbath to their new week, receiving their extra soul known as a 'neshama yetera'

Learn more on what is filigree

Maker: H. Meyen & Co.

This antique German silver spice tower is an exceptional gauge of silver for its type, exceptional quality and in exceptional condition.

This exceptional example of antique silverware has been professionally polished and is in presentation condition.

The filigree decoration is very sharp and the tooled ornamentation is very crisp.

The German hallmarks struck to the surface of the foot are all very clear.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this example of antique Judaica silverware.

Height 20.6cm/8.1"

Diameter 5.5cm/2.2"

Width from body to tip of flag 6.8cm/2.7"

2.5 troy ounces/78.8g