Object Description
Large and rare antique French porcelain and giltwood menorah by Samson
French, Late 19th Century
Height 91cm, width 70cm, depth 9cm
Of remarkable size and intricacy, this gilt porcelain menorah was created by Samson et Cie in the late 19th century. Established in France in 1845 by Edme Samson, the firm became renowned for producing exceptional ceramic reproductions inspired by masterpieces from Meissen, Sèvres, and Chelsea. Crafted to the highest standards, these works were intended not to mislead but to satisfy a growing appreciation for museum-quality decorative objects.
A menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum used in the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Eight of its branches represent the nights of the holiday, while the central “shamash” candle is used to light the others. The menorah commemorates the miracle of the Temple oil: after the Maccabees rededicated the Temple, they discovered only a small jug of ritually pure olive oil – sufficient to keep the Temple menorah burning for a single day – but miraculously, it lasted eight. Some designs, including this example in Mayfair Gallery’s collection, incorporate two jugs, symbolising both the discovery of the pure oil and the miracle of its enduring flame, highlighting themes of abundance, sharing, and the enduring spirit of faith and hope.
Unusually for a menorah, this example is crafted from gilt porcelain rather than the more common metal. Its design is modelled on a Torah Ark – the ornate cabinet within a synagogue that houses the sacred Torah scrolls and is considered the holiest part of the synagogue. The overall composition draws inspiration from a silver model made in 1787 in Brody, Ukraine, by the maker BZK, now preserved in the H. Ephraim and Mordecai Benguiat Family Collection.
The menorah is constructed from three separate porcelain components, each marked on the reverse with the distinctive blue Samson stamp. Encasing the piece is a finely carved giltwood frame, which expands the composition outward and underscores its grandeur and significance.
A rare and exquisite example of Judaica, this menorah is both a remarkable religious object and a highly desirable addition to any discerning collection.