Embossed silver pointer used for following the reading of the Torah (the Jewish book of laws)
The shaft is ridged and inlaid with red and white tear-shaped semi-precious stones. On one end it has a spherical recipient for perfumes (besamim), decorated with roses, acanthus leaves and a brief inscription in Hebrew.
It is used for reading the Torah, as if this holy book is touched by the hand, the legal scrolls become impure.
Details of the work
Object
Pointer
Dimensions
Length = 47.6 cm
Technique
Assemblage, embossing, inlay
Material
Silver and precious stones