18th Century German Pewter Purim Plate

18th Century German Pewter Purim Plate

The outer rim has wriggle-work engraving stating “and of sending portions one to another and gifts to the poor” (Esther 9:22). Interspersed between some of the words are depictions of foliage and flowers. Large decorative star in which the very centre has three interlocking fish.

This dish was used for the custom of sending gifts of food to friends and neighbours during Purim.

In Central Europe, nuts, candied or dried fruit were the usual treats extended.

The astrological symbol of the month of Adar, in which Purim falls out, is fish, which is why it is featured in the centre.

18th-century pewter Purim dishes are more scarce than 18th century pewter Passover trays, for reasons that can only be theorized, such as a Passover tray would be a family heirloom to be  passed down the generations, as opposed to a Purim dish, which was received during the holiday by a friend or neighbour and at some point in time, simply discarded.

Fully hallmarked.

H 0.79 in. x Dm 9.06 in.

H 2 cm x Dm 23 cm