Russian Silver Torah Pointer/Yad - Antique 1879

Description

This fine antique Russian silver Torah pointer/yad has a plain knopped cylindrical tapering form.

The plain bulbous knop to the terminal is surmounted with a Star of David* with a rope twist decorated loop.

This portion joins the plain hallmarked tapering shaft/handpiece with an impressive robed figural ornamentation.

The handpiece is embellished with a collet set cabochon gemstone.

The knopped hallmarked lower portion is entwined with an applied rope twist decoration and terminates with an impressive hand with its ringed index finger pointed.

The hallmarks struck to this exceptional Russian piece includes:

Assay mark: А.К 1879

Silver quality/purity mark: 84 (84 zolotniks**)

This impressive Torah pointer/yad is an exceptional example of its type; it is uncommon to find such a piece in exceptional condition, due to their formation they do not stand the test of time.

* The Star of David can also be referred to as the Shield of David or Magen David and is a recognised symbol of Judaism.

* 84 zolotniki is equivalent to 875/1000 or .875 standard silver

NOTE: The Hebrew word yad (יד‎) translates to "hand" and is used while reading the Torah. The yad ensures that an impure hand does not touch the fragile parchment; issues also arise when ink does not absorb to the velum and there can be damage to the wording.

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