SILVER TORAH SHIELD. Eastern Europe, probably Russia, 19th century.

Slightly concave rectangular shield. From top: oval raised cartouche with Hebrew engraved inscription; plaque box, now sealed; above, three-dimensional miniature Ark with chased designs and hinged doors with Hebrew engraved initial words of Decalogue; flanked by two three-dimensional columns which bear cast applique lions rampant; embossed swirl and foliate border; at center bottom, embossed blossoms; above border, from bottom: lions support central applique three-dimensional demi-coronet with ribs, two bells, topped by cast bird. Handmade chain. This Torah Shield was dedicated to “the Holy Society Love of Peace. Undecipherable Eastern European marks. H: 335mm. Lacking bells and loop to attach chain at right; top of plaque box later