The menorah has been a symbol of Judaism since ancient times, and is described in the Bible as the seven-lamp (six branches) ancient Hebrew lamp stand, made of pure gold. It was used in the portable sanctuary, which was set up by Moses in the wilderness, and later in the Temple of Jerusalem. Fresh olive oil of the purest quality was burned daily to light its lamps. The triumphal arch of Titus set up in Rome in c.81 AD by Domitian commemorated his brother’s success in the Jewish War (70-71 AD). There is a key central relief panel which shows the victorious procession of the Romans with Jewish booty, including the sacred Menorah from the Temple of Soloman in Jersualem. This highlights the Menorah’s importance as a symbol of a faith group, and draws light on the conflicts between the Jewish people and the Roman State.
Judaean Lead Seal with Menorah
$375.34
A Judaean, discoid, lead seal amulet, featuring a menorah motif within a roundel on one side. The image on the reverse is worn and hard to identify. The piece is longitudinally pierced for suspension. The seal is covered in an attractive silvery-blue patination.
Provenance: Collected from 1969-1999. From the collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK.
Condition: Fine. Deterioration of metal as expected with age.
In stock
| Weight | 10.28 g |
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| Dimensions | L 2.3 x W 2.2 x H 0.3 cm |
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