Candelabra

This candlestick (along with M30s19) is one of the few pieces of Judaica in the collection. It features an imperial eagle—a symbol of the Holy Roman Empire, suggesting an origin in Poland or Prussia. In fact, a metal customs stamp indicates that at some point they passed through Hamburg, formerly part of Prussia. The deer present a clue to their ceremonial purpose—an inscription in Hebrew which reads “To light the candle of the Sabbath.” In the Jewish faith, candles are lit on Friday night to usher in Shabbat, a day of rest, and a blessing is recited. 

Isabella was fascinated by the material culture of different religions, above all Christianity but also Judaism, Buddhism, and Islam. They attest to her wide-ranging interests and all-embracing cultural outlook.