An outstanding example of Jewish ritual silverwork — this rare folding Hanukkah lamp was created by master Eduard Dannenberg in Riga in 1874. The piece represents a unique synthesis of sacred function, architectural symbolism, and profound religious meaning, characteristic of the finest imperial Russian silverwork of the late 19th century.Crafted from 84 standard silver, the lamp is designed in the form of a triptych. Each of its three hinged panels is richly adorned with relief and engraved decoration. The central plaque is modeled after the Aron Kodesh — the Holy Ark used to house Torah scrolls — and features a striking image of an open Torah scroll crowned with the Crown of the Torah, flanked by columns evoking the entrance to the Jerusalem Temple.The side panels depict the Prophet Moses and the High Priest Aaron, meticulously detailed with their canonical attributes: the Tablets of the Covenant, the shofar, the breastplate set with twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel, and Aaron’s headdress inscribed with “Holy to the Lord.”The lower section of the lamp is fitted with eight oil cups and two shamash holders, mounted on side brackets. Its compact, foldable structure indicates its likely function as a travel lamp — a rare feature among 19th-century Judaica.
Hallmarks: oval maker’s mark DANNENBERG, inspector’s mark with initials L.Z. (Ludwig Zak) and date 1874, Riga District Assay Office mark (fortress gate), and multiple 84 standard silver marks.
Dimensions: folded – 13.5 × 3.5 × 22 cm; unfolded width – 29 cm.Total weight: 911 grams.
Its rarity, iconography, and exceptional craftsmanship make this Hanukkah lamp a distinguished museum-quality object that exemplifies the convergence of Jewish liturgical tradition and European silversmithing excellence.
The Hanukkah lamp is both a ritual object and a vessel of historical memory, commemorating the miracle of the Temple oil. During the 19th century, the artistic development of Hanukkah lamps flourished, incorporating architectural and symbolic motifs into their design.This lamps composition echoes the Aron Kodesh, transforming a liturgical object into a miniature sacred space. The crowned Torah, Solomon’s columns, and references to the Jerusalem Temple portal reflect Psalm 118:20: “This is the gate of the Lord; the righteous shall enter through it.”The inclusion of Moses and Aaron — rendered with canonical Torah attributes — reflects the Jewish view of divine authority and priestly tradition. Produced in Riga, this work by Dannenberg is a rare survival from the Jewish communities of the Russian Empire, particularly from the Baltic region.
The lamp is preserved in excellent condition. All engraved and relief decorations are intact and sharp. Hinges function smoothly; locking and hanging mechanisms are present. All oil cups and shamash holders are original and complete.Silver surface shows minor age-related patina and wear consistent with 19th-century liturgical silver. Hallmarks — maker’s, inspector’s, and assay office — are crisp and legible. No restorations or replacements have been detected.Overall, the lamp retains its museum-level integrity, making it an outstanding collectible Judaica object.
