This exceptional antique Austro-Hungarian silver spice box has been modelled in the form of a tower.

The cuboid shaped spice box is ornamented with exceptional silver filigree work within a plain arched frame.

This impressive vessel is fitted with a hinged door embellished with contemporary engraved initials.

The upper portion of this impressive antique silver spice tower* is embellished with four articulating flag designs encompassing a tapering panelled chute.

The tower"s chute is ornamented with further filigree and rope twist decoration and terminating with a scalloped knop to an undulating guidon shaped flag.

The spice compartment surmounts a plain wirework style pedestal, accented with a further scalloped knop.

The square shaped foot is ornamented with filgree decoration and supported by four plain semi-spherical feet.

The hallmarks struck to the surface of this Austro-Hungarian silver spice tower include:

Maker"s mark: EE (untraced)

Silver quality/purity mark: Dianakopf mark (.800, 800/1000)

Assay mark: A6 (Brno/Brünn - Czech Republic)

* A spice box is used to hold sweet-smelling herbs/spices and can be fashioned in many forms. As of the 16th century a very common form is that of a tower, influenced by developments in architeCture. The spice tower is used to bring comfort to a Jew as they transition through Sabbath to their new week, receiving their extra soul known as a "neshama yetera"

This antique Austro-Hungarian silver spice tower is an exceptional gauge of silver, exceptional quality and in exceptional presentation condition.

The filigree decoration is very sharp.

The hallmarks struck to the surface of the body are all clear.

Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this example of antique Judaica silverware.

Height 20.1cm/7.9"

Width 6cm/2.4" square

3.5 troy ounces/110g

Date: Circa 1900

Origin: Brünn, Czech Republic

Maker: Untraced Maker's Marks