Object Description
A silver gilt Judaica Torah Breastplate or Shield, by Moses Salkind & Co.
London, 1931
Height 56cm, width 22cm, depth 3cm
Made in London in 1931 by Moses Salkind & Co., this excellent piece of Judaica is a large, ornamental, Torah Shield, or breastplate, used to hold the Jewish holy script in between readings. Based on Mulberry Street, London, Moses Salkind & Co., were leading silversmiths and makers of items of Judaica in particular, and this fine piece is demonstrative of the artistic and decorative merits of their work.
Comprising a chain-suspended silver backplate mounted with various decorative gilt elements, the shield is adorned with three gilt hearts, a large scrolling foliate border, two gilt pillars topped with lions, and mounted either side of a gilt engraved Hebrew plaque for the ten commandments. Beneath there is a small mount for written cards to denote various Jewish holy festivals, announcing the occasion for which the Torah is brought out and a passage recited. A radiant and remarkable piece of silverware, this pleasing piece stands out both for its religious purpose and its exceptional decorative qualities.