IMPORTANT SILVER TORAH SHIELD WITH STONES Probably Germany, 19th century.

Rectangular with shield-form outline, petal forms at sides and bottom, diapered and chased center, flanked by concave smooth columns with Corinthian capitols, topped by ribbed urns linked by ropes with central rondel. At center, from bottom: gilt plaque box with three gilt plaques; above, applique gilt Decalogue engraved with initial Hebrew words; two gilt applique lions rampant support partially filigree gilt coronet. Colored stones set overall. Chain from two loops at back. No marks found. H: 278mm. Lower chains and medallions lacking

For a similar Torah Shield, less ornate, without gemstones, see Israel Museum Catalogue, The Stieglitz Collection (1987) no. 29