GERMAN JEWISH BESAMIM SPICE CONTAINER, BOX

ANTIQUE GERMAN JEWISH BESAMIM SPICE CONTAINER, BOX, 19th CENTURY
This is an antique German Besamim Box decorated with intricate filigree and hallmarked. The spice tower, or besamim, is used during Havdalah, a Jewish ritual that marks the end of the holy Sabbath. During this ritual, a special candle and spice essence are used for blessings. The act of smelling the spices is seen as enhancing the Jewish spirit after the peacefulness of Shabbat, before returning to the daily routine.
CONDITION: The item is in very good, used condition. For additional information, please refer to the pictures.
PROVENANCE: 1. From a private Russian collector in Tel Aviv, Israel, 1991-2021; 2. Ishtar Auctions LTD, Tel Aviv, Israel, July 25, 2022 (the winner will receive this information); 3. Our sale of this item adds another layer of provenance. History of sale is very IMPORTANT for serious collection.
DIMENSIONS: 7 1/2 inches (20 cm). Weight: 75 grams.
ESTIMATED PRICE: $700 - $2,000 (significantly lower than today's market price).
HISTORY of SALES: A few years ago, Jewish spice tower boxes made in Germany also from the same period were sold on Live Auctioneers and eBay for $1,800, $1,800, $1,973, and $2,000 - please refer to the screenshots for details. Today, prices have significantly increased compared to those of 5-10 years ago.
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HISTORY: Havdalah is a Jewish religious ceremony that marks the symbolic end of Shabbat and holidays, and ushers in the new week. In Judaism, Shabbat ends - and the new week begins-at nightfall on Saturday. Havdalah may be recited as soon as three stars are visible in the night sky. Some communities delay the Havdalah until later, in order to prolong Shabbat. If for some reason one cannot recite Havdalah on Saturday night, it may be observed as late as Tuesday evening. Havdalah is normally recited over kosher wine or kosher grape juice, although other beverages (except for water) may be used if wine or grape juice are not available. On completion of the Shabbat, a special braided Havdalah candle with more than one wick is lit, and a prayer is recited, and it is customary to gaze at one's fingernails reflecting the light of the candle. Spices, often stored in a decorative spice container, are handed around so that everyone can smell the fragrance. In the Sephardi community, branches of aromatic plants are used for this purpose. After Yom Kippur, a candle is used but not spices.
Condition Report: Used