A MOST ELEGANT POLISH PARCEL-GILT SILVER TORAH SHIELD.

Poland, Late 18th-early 19th-century. This majestic Torah shield features an open work crown in which two rampant griffins hold the Tablets of the Law, which in turn is surmounted by a crown. The lower edge of the crown is edged with metalwork reminiscent of a scalloped valence that would be found within the Torah Ark, ornamental gilt triangles are suspended below. The center of the shield features a miniature Torah Ark with a hinged compartment decorated with silver filigree work set above a gilt surface. The doors open to reveal a cast gilt miniature Torah Scroll and are flanked by two columns on which two birds are perched. The leaf border of the Ark echoes the border of the shield as a whole. The back-plate exhibits robust floral repoussé work. Marks: HI and 12 (located behind crown). Height: 8 3/4 inches (22.5 cm), width: 6 1/4 inches (16.2 cm). Grimwade no. 10 (86). Depictions of griffins and other allegorical and mystical beasts are found in many examples of Polish ceremonial and synagogue art and architecture. This shield shows the confluence of naturalistic, mythical and Jewish synagogue imagery. <<No similar such beautifully designed Torah shield HAS BEEN identified in ANY OTHER major collection OF JUDAICA.>>