Antique Palestine Carved Wood and Brass Jewish Besamim (Spice) Box

A charming and unusual antique Jewish Besamim spice box from Palestine, crafted in an elegant egg-shaped form from hand-carved wood with brass fittings. Such spice containers were traditionally used during the Havdalah ceremony, which marks the conclusion of the Sabbath and Jewish festivals.

The warm natural wood, combined with the brass elements, reflects the folk craftsmanship associated with the Holy Land during the late Ottoman and early Mandate periods. Similar examples can be found illustrated in The Precious Legacy: Judaica Treasures catalogue by Altshuler (see reference photos).

Besamim boxes held fragrant spices used during Havdalah, symbolizing the sweetness of the departing Sabbath and providing spiritual comfort as the new week begins.

Dimensions

* Height: 5.5 cm

* Diameter: 4.5 cm

Features

* Antique Palestine / Holy Land origin

* Hand-carved wood construction

* Brass mounts and fittings

* Rare egg-shaped form

* Traditional Jewish Havdalah spice container

* Fine example of early Palestinian Judaica craftsmanship

* Comparable examples published in Judaica reference literature

Condition

Good antique condition with age-related wear and patina consistent with use and age. Please examine photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Keywords: Antique Judaica, Palestine Judaica, Holy Land, Besamim Box, Spice Tower, Havdalah, Jewish Ritual Object, Carved Wood, Brass, Folk Art, Jewish Ceremony, Ottoman Palestine, Mandate Palestine, Rare Judaica, Collectible Jewish Antiques.