Antique Jewish silver besamim spice box

This box has been crafted from silver filigree, which is delicate decorative openwork, formed by interlaced silver wires. The box is of oval form and is covered by a flat lid. This lid is fitted with a looped handle, and with two ornamental scrolled forms. The box is fully hallmarked.

The container would have originally held the aromatic spices, herbs or fruit (‘Besamim’) used in a Jewish Havdalah ceremony, which marks the end of the Shabbat (the seventh day of the week). The Besamim box would be passed around the Jewish congregation, its beautiful aroma serving to comfort and soothe their souls, ready for the week ahead.