An attractive plate with wide rim bearing Hebrew verse: “The commandment of God is clear, enlightening the eyes” (Psalms 19:9). A Star-of-David at center. Marked. Diam: 10 inches.

POSEN SILVER HAVDALAH PLATE.

Germany, circa 1900

At the conclusion of the Havdalah ritual at the close of the Sabbath day, some have the intriguing custom to dip one’s fingertips into the spilt wine and dab the eyelids, forehead and interior pockets. According to many great sages (including the Shelah, the Rema and the Chasam Sofer) while doing so one should recite the Biblical verse: “Mitzvath Hashem Bara Meirath Einayim” - as appears around the rim of this interesting plate.