A Pair of Silver Torah Finials, embellished with Niello. Meknes, Morocco, end of the 19th century. Height: 33 cm. Weight: 900 grams.


A pair of Torah finials made of silver and gilt silver, embellished throughout with lovely foliate designs executed in niello. The finials' bodies have cut-out "balconies" within which hang gilt silver bells.
Niello is a black mixture usually of sulphur, copper, silver, and lead used as an inlay on engraved or etched metal. Its deep color provides a wonderful contrast to the silver background. The niello technique originated in the ancient world and was used in Syria, Egypt, and other locations. From the Middle Ages onward, European silversmiths were using this technique to embellish jewelry and other metal objects.
A Beautiful Item.