Islamic Art and Fine Objects

A YEMENI JEWISH SILVER FILIGREE BESAMIM SPICE BOX

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Start price: £180

Estimated price: £300 - £600

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Description

A Yemeni Jewish silver filigree besamim or spice box of square form with rounded corners. The exterior is constructed with intricate silver wire scrollwork and applied granulation. The hinged lid features a central circular motif surrounded by concentric rows of silver beads. The side panels are decorated with repeating geometric patterns including lozenge shapes and granulated clusters. The box is supported by four decorative, lobed feet crafted in matching filigree work. The interior of the lid and the base exhibit a gold-wash or vermeil finish. A small hallmark, likely indicating 800 silver fineness, is visible on the protruding thumbpiece of the lid.

H: 5cm, Weight: 138.6g