HEAVY DAMASCENE PRESENTATION TRAY.

Early 20th century

Large rectangular tray, with silver and copper finely inlaid onto brass featuring large central Biblical narrative entitled: “This is the Giving of the Law” with Moses presenting the Tablets and the Jewish People at center surrounding a stylized Mount Sinai. Central image framed by columns and large figures of Moses holding the Tablets and Aaron the High Priest holding the censer, with two lions couchant. Raised rim bearing numerous Hebrew Biblical verses relating to the giving of the Law and its honor. The whole accomplished in folk design, with geometric detailing, primitive arabesque scrolling along border and organic tendrils surrounding the verses. 14.25 x 21 inches.

Interestingly the Tablets here erroneously list eight laws (versus ten) which one might associate with a less knowlegable artisan. However, Aaron’s priestly breastplate meticulously identifies the Twelve Tribes by name or initial. See Yeshiva University Museum Catalogue, See and Sanctify: Exploring Jewish Symbols (1979) no. 63.