Bidspirit auction | Antique Italian Jewish Protective Amulet

Antique Italian Jewish Protective Amulet Pendant (Bride/New Mother Amulet) – Silver Heart ”Shaddai” Pendant Set with Baroque Pearls -  An antique Italian Jewish amulet pendant, 19th century, crafted in fine-quality handwork silversmithing, designed as a rounded, rich, and complex composition incorporating traditional motifs. At the center is fixed a prominent (three-dimensional) pendant in the form of a hammered silver heart, upon which the letters of the holy Name ”Sha-dai” — an ancient Kabbalistic protective symbol and amulet against the evil eye, dangers, and harm — are engraved in careful and elegant Hebrew script. The heart is surrounded by a magnificent sculptural wreath composed of eight (8) open silver flowers with scalloped petals (in the style of Italian cordella / filigree work). At the center of each flower are set genuine milky baroque pearls. At the upper section is fixed an original hanging bail, intended for wearing as a festive necklace by the bride, or for hanging above the infant's and new mother's bed. The reverse of the amulet presents clean, smooth cut and raised relief work of the silver plate. No signature was found; tested with acid: high silver (800+). The item is preserved in excellent collector's condition, bearing a natural and rich patina of antique silver. Amulet jewelry from Italian Jewry (particularly those combining gemstones or pearls with the Name Shaddai) are considered among the most sought-after and rare items on the public market, as most have been preserved within old family collections or acquired by leading museums worldwide (such as the Israel Museum or the Jewish Museum in New York).  Dimensions: 7.5 × 6.5 cm. 16 g.