Torah shield. Eastern Europe, [mid-19th century].
Silver (marked: Manufacturer's mark Friedman and "14"), filigree, casting and engraving.
The shield combines filigree work with a relief. The Torah crown, pillars of Boaz and Jachin and a Holy Ark are featured in filigree work. Cast work features birds and deer on plants' twigs. In addition, engraving on the lower part of the shield; center – medallion with a curved snake ("Nachash Akalton") with its tail in its mouth. Hung on the shield are three heart-shaped medallions with the engraved inscription: "Yitzchak ben Shaul". On the door of the Holy Ark in the center – a Star of David. When the door is opened, appears a miniature Torah scroll, bound with a sash.
Height: 26 cm, width: 16 cm. Good condition, spots. Bendings, minor cracks. Repairs on the reverse, missing screws and nuts, missing chain.