STRIKING JERUSALEM-STONE MENORAH.

20th century

Unusual theatrical display of the Chanukah story incorporated as the backdrop to an eight-font oil menorah. The Temple-like form includes two staircases to a second level where one is met by bearded Jewish-Maccabee soldiers (Matisyahu and Yehuda) each armed with shield bearing large Star-of-David. At center of upper portion is carved relief depicting the Maccabees surrounding the illuminated seven-branched Temple Menorah, a symbol of Jewish victory over the Greeks. Charmingly, the artist includes archers at two side- windows to further protect the Temple. The “Al HaNissim” liturgy appears in bas relief, as does floral and foliate motifs. With removable servant light. 12 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches.

Made from “mizzi ahmar,” i.e. pink-toned, Jerusalem stone.